As part of its ongoing commitment to educating our future leaders about sustainability and preserving our local biodiversity, ISUZU MOTORS South Africa (ISUZU), in collaboration with Giving Them Wings Foundation, marked Arbor Week by creating two gardens in two primary schools, planting 600 indigenous plants and 200 spekboom.
This initiative, which benefits 1,095 learners at Astra Primary in Betheldorp, Gqeberha and 866 learners in Morojaneng Primary in Katlehong, Johannesburg focuses on raising awareness on climate change by creating carbon sinks, biodiversity conservation, and emphasising the importance of reducing carbon emissions. The newly planted gardens will serve as outdoor learning spaces, namely green classrooms, where learners can practically engage with the environment, enriching their education through hands-on interaction with nature. Another component of the project has been a keen focus on food security. A variety of crops have been planted using permaculture methods, which allow for food sustainability by working with nature.
“This garden will support us with teaching our learners valuable lessons about sustainability, conservation, and the environment. We are deeply grateful to ISUZU MOTORS South Africa and Giving Them Wings Foundation for this gift that will benefit our school for years to come,” said Mr Douglas Chirwa, principal at Morojaneng Primary School.
“This initiative is a game changer for our school, creating a beautiful, sustainable environment where our learners can connect with nature while enhancing their education. This garden will inspire our learners to become active participants in protecting and nurturing our planet,” said Mrs Helma Boggenpoel, Astra Primary School.
The project emphasises ISUZU’s dedication to empowering future generations with the knowledge and tools to protect the planet. Giving Them Wings Foundation will monitor the gardens for 12 months, while the schools integrate them into their curriculum, encouraging students to take ownership and utilise the spaces for ongoing learning. ISUZU plans to expand this initiative to other primary schools as part of the drive to combat climate change and promote biodiversity conservation.
“We’re not just planting trees; we’re planting knowledge and responsibility. This initiative is a tangible example of ISUZU’s commitment to building a sustainable future for our communities and the environment,” said Mr Lebogang Makoloi, ISUZU MOTORS South Africa Department Executive Corporate Affairs.
Vegetables and fruit will also be planted as a sustainable means to supplement the feeding scheme at the schools. Through this initiative, ISUZU MOTORS South Africa reinforces its role in leaving a sustainable legacy, promoting environmental stewardship, while enhancing educational opportunities for youth.