ORT South Africa (ORT SA), in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment (DFFE), hosted a Arbor Day initiative that combined greening, environmental education, and food security initiatives.
The ORT SA Green Committee and the Department of Agriculture visited five schools in Tsakane — Mbongeni Mgugudu Secondary, Michael Mkhwanazi Primary, Mega Ext 22 Primary, Emzimkhulu Primary, and Phumlani Primary — to plant trees, establish vegetable gardens, and inspire learners through environmental education. Learners, educators, and groundskeepers actively participated in the planting ceremonies, underscoring the importance of community ownership in sustainability efforts.
The program included a creative competition encouraged learners to produce posters or poems on the theme of environmental care, with one winner per school receiving a R300 Takealot voucher. Beyond tree planting, schools were equipped with seedlings — including tomatoes, spinach, cabbage, beetroot, carrots, and green onions — to establish micro-gardens and promote food security alongside the greening initiative.
The Department of Agriculture played a key role in supplying garden starter packs (compost, wheelbarrows, tools, hosepipes, and seedlings), as well as technical support. Officials present included Mr. Ivan Ramogale (Assistant Director, National Office), Mr. Josiah Nkosi (Admin Officer, National Office), Mrs. Cathrine Legodi (Coordinator), and Mr. LeaveMe Mugimeti (Coordinator). Importantly DFFE donated 27 indigenous trees to be planted at each school.
The program showcased the strength of collaboration between government, civil society, and private partners. Outcomes included the planting of 27 trees across Tsakane schools, the launch of vegetable gardens to support nutrition and sustainability, the establishment of Green Committees to ensure long-term impact, and meaningful engagement with learners on the importance of environmental stewardship.
“Through initiatives like Arbor Day, we not only plant trees but also plant knowledge, awareness, and hope in our communities,” said Daphne Mabaso of ORT SA Green Committee. “It was inspiring to see learners and teachers embrace these opportunities and step into the role of changemakers for a greener future.”
For more information about ORT SA, please go to: https://www.ortsa.org.za/.