Learners at Moses van der Byl Primary School are reaping the benefits of a vibrant school garden, which provides fresh vegetables to support student nutrition and promote practical learning.

The garden initiative, aligned with the ministry of education’s policy encouraging schools to establish gardens, helps supplement learners’ dietary needs while fostering life skills.

Recently, the school harvested spinach, cabbage and carrots from its garden, with plans to use the produce in meals served through the school feeding programme.

The project was established with support from Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) and the International Peace Youth Group (IPYG).

Simeon Kamati, a teacher at the school, highlighted the initiative’s alignment with national educational policies.

“The school garden is an initiative that complements the Ministry of Education’s efforts to improve the nutritional well-being of learners. The vegetables produced here are incorporated into our meals, helping to ensure that students receive the necessary nutrients,” he said.

Kamati emphasised the importance of the feeding programme, particularly for students from underprivileged backgrounds.

“Many of these learners come from challenging circumstances, and providing food at school helps them stay focused and motivated to learn. It’s a vital support system that encourages children to remain in class rather than skipping lessons to find food,” he explained.

Beyond nutritional benefits, the garden offers learners the opportunity to develop practical skills and a sense of responsibility.

Haihwema Twapewoshali, an active participant in watering the plants, shared her experience: “Since we started the school garden, I’ve learned how to care for plants, when to water them, and how to add supplements. I’ve also been teaching my family about gardening, which has been very helpful.”

The project has received praise from Robert Maseka, Deputy Chief Branch Manager for HWPL Southern Africa and a member of the Namibia National School Health Task Force on Integrated School Health Programmes.

Maseka commended the collaboration between IPYG and Moses Van der Byl Primary School, describing the initiative as more than mere vegetable production.

“The project is a practical investment in the health, nutrition, and education of learners. School gardens promote food security, healthy eating habits, and environmental stewardship. They also provide hands-on learning opportunities that enhance classroom education,” Maseka said.

He emphasised that such initiatives foster environmental responsibility among young learners by involving them directly in food cultivation.

Maseka also highlighted the importance of partnerships in sustaining these efforts.

“The collaboration between community organisations, educational institutions, and civil society demonstrates how collective action can create sustainable solutions that improve children’s lives and educational outcomes.”

As a result of the harvest, the school garden has become a vital resource, supplying vegetables and serving as a practical learning environment.

Learners are gaining firsthand experience in food cultivation, contributing to their school’s meals, and acquiring skills that extend beyond the classroom.

-mkambukwe@nepc.com.na