Nampak Report 2018

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Growing Bigger, Reaching Wider We are developing and giving hands on work experience to 800 unemployed youth by means of our Blue Flag, Green Coast and other Youth Programmes.

WESSA continues to achieve significantly and with real impact by assisting as many South Africans as possible to become People Caring for the Earth . We regard ourselves as a major player in South Africa and the continent around implementing effective and impactful education programmes in the Schools and Youth sector. WESSA is a 92-year-old youthful and vibrant organisation and we are extremely proud of our rich history in South African conservation and environmental education. WESSA researches, develops and implements focused accredited and non- accredited environmental, eco- tourism, education and youth development programmes throughout South Africa. We are the sole and proud implementer of all the international Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) programmes in South Africa, as well as an implementor of choice for various youth programmes on behalf of Government and the private sector. education programmes under the banners of Eco-Schools , Learning about Forests , Young Reporters for the Environment and Youth Entrepreneurship , together with our five outdoor education centres, make a critical contribution to youth development by involving the 1 036 000 learners and 41 400 teachers we reached in the past year. Our youth

Nampak - our anchor funder and partner since 2003

We have been able to introduce new additions to our programme in a deliberate and strategic response to the calls for development of 21st century skills in preparation for the fourth industrial revolution. Two new programmes launched in 2018! We have launched two new international school programmes in 2018, Young Reporters for the Environment and Learning About Forests, as well two new School Entrepreneurship programmes in our basket of offerings. This detailed report is evidence of the impactful work done in 2018 with Nampak’s support as well as developing and strengthening the WESSA Schools Programme on a strategic level, nationally and globally. As we come the end of a journey with Nampak, we can only hope that in the near future we will continue our partnership and welcome you back in the family of People Caring for the Earth. Dr Thommie Burger CEO: WESSA

We would like to acknowledge Nampak as our anchor funder and partner to the WESSA Schools and Youth Programme since 2003 . Your support over the years have made it possible for the programme to increase our national exposure and for the staff to be capacitated in delivering quality project management support to the schools registered to participate in our programme. As an NGO in the environmental sector, our sources of income remain to be challenging amidst the tough economic realities and hence the appreciation for your support. Despite the realities, our Schools and Youth Programme continues to grow into new areas aligned with the demands and contextual influences of the education system and youth sector.

Making a critical contribution to youth development

CONTENTS

WESSA Schools & Youth DIVISION ......................................................................................................................5 Nampak supported eco-schools programme: National overview.......................................................................6 International and national involvement..............................................................................................................9 1. FEE update...............................................................................................................................................9 a. Eco-Schools NOM (National Operators Meeting) 2018...........................................................................9 b. Africa network .......................................................................................................................................10 2. International and provincial twinning ...................................................................................................11 3. Aligning to national, continental and international agendas for meaningful change ...........................12 4. ROSE competition outcome ..................................................................................................................14 5. Oepsie and Namphelia Ostriches ..........................................................................................................15 6. Award ceremonies 2017 – held March/April 2018 ...............................................................................17 7. Celebrating environmental days ...........................................................................................................18 a. Global Action Days ................................................................................................................................18 b. Rise to Climate campaign ......................................................................................................................24 c. Other environmental days.....................................................................................................................25 8. WESSA Eco-Schools programme acknowledged – Impumelelo Award.................................................27 NAMPAK Support ..............................................................................................................................................28 1. Independently registered schools (IRS).................................................................................................28 Photos: ......................................................................................................................................................28 Benefits of the programme .......................................................................................................................30 Other funded schools ........................................................................................................................................31 WESSA Launches the LEAF programme ............................................................................................................32 1. City of Tshwane – Gauteng....................................................................................................................33 Statistics ....................................................................................................................................................33 Photos .......................................................................................................................................................33 wessa launches the YRE programme.................................................................................................................34 2. Engagement Global – Gauteng..............................................................................................................35 Statistics ....................................................................................................................................................35 Photos .......................................................................................................................................................35 Eco-Schools .......................................................................................................................................................36 1. AECI - Gauteng.......................................................................................................................................36 Statistics ....................................................................................................................................................36 Photos .......................................................................................................................................................37 2. Bakwena Toll Concession – North West................................................................................................38

Statistics ....................................................................................................................................................38 Poster story 1 ............................................................................................................................................39 Poster story 2 ............................................................................................................................................40 3. Seriti - Free State ...................................................................................................................................41 Statistics ....................................................................................................................................................41 Photos .......................................................................................................................................................42 4. N3TC - Free State...................................................................................................................................43 Statistics ....................................................................................................................................................43 Photos .......................................................................................................................................................44 5. Sasol - Free State ...................................................................................................................................45 Statistics ....................................................................................................................................................45 Photos .......................................................................................................................................................46 6. De Beers – Limpopo ..............................................................................................................................48 Statistics ....................................................................................................................................................48 Poster story 1 ............................................................................................................................................49 Poster story 2 ............................................................................................................................................50 7. Capricorn District Municipality (CDM) – Limpopo.................................................................................52 Statistics ....................................................................................................................................................52 Photos .......................................................................................................................................................53 8. Rand Merchant Bank (RMB) - KwaZulu Natal........................................................................................54 Statistics ....................................................................................................................................................54 Photos .......................................................................................................................................................55 9. Orion – Eastern Cape.............................................................................................................................57 Statistics ....................................................................................................................................................57 Photos .......................................................................................................................................................58 10. Metrowind Van Staden Windfarm – Eastern Cape ...........................................................................59 Statistics ....................................................................................................................................................59 Photos .......................................................................................................................................................60 11. Glencore – Mpumalanga ...................................................................................................................61 Statistics ....................................................................................................................................................61 Photos .......................................................................................................................................................62 12. Botanical Society – Mpumalanga ......................................................................................................63 Statistics ....................................................................................................................................................63 Photos .......................................................................................................................................................64 Overall impact of Nampak funding ...................................................................................................................65 Connect with us.................................................................................................................................................66 About WESSA ....................................................................................................................................................67

WESSA Achievements 2018...............................................................................................................................67

WESSA SCHOOLS & YOUTH DIVISION More and more all sectors are encouraged to listen to the ordinary citizens of South Africa if they want to influence change that will propel the country into one with dignity, prosperity, sustainability, and human- centred self-awareness. It is for this reason that the WESSA Schools and Youth Division constantly reflects upon how we engage, respond to and assist with a process of self-emancipation of ordinary South Africans. In 2018, the Schools and Youth Division strategically revised our existing programmes and projects and conceptualised new programmes and projects to serve South African schools, communities and ordinary citizens.

NAMPAK SUPPORTED ECO-SCHOOLS PROGRAMME: NATIONAL OVERVIEW Internationally, the Eco-Schools Programme has been implemented for over 20 years with its 25th anniversary being celebrated in 2019. WESSA, the only South African Eco-Schools implementer, have touched the lives of ordinary citizens through the Eco-Schools programme for 15 years in 2018. Starting our next 15 years, the WESSA Eco-Schools programme plans to become more entrenched in the everyday realities of our learners, students, teachers and the larger communities it takes to raise our children. A strong focus will be on developing and nurturing the 21 century skills our future leaders will need in order to prepare them for a world of work that does not exist yet. Aligning the further development of the Eco-Schools programme with national, continental and international agendas are thus crucial to respond to the challenges our communities face. Considered an interventionist programme by the Department of Basic Education, it is clear that the WESSA Eco-Schools programme has an important role to play in ensuring quality and equal education that will allow the children of South Africa to better understand the power they have to facilitate sustainable change in their own communities and lives. 582 SCHOOLS in 2018!

Respond to challenges communities face

Ensuring quality and equal education

Facilitate sustainable change in communities

Develop & nurture the skills of future leaders

Prepare learners for a world of work

Below is a map of the distribution of the Eco-Schools for 2018:

Achieving sustainability, one school at a time:

Some assessments are not yet complete for the 2018/2019 period – schools have until March 2019.

Awards 2018

26 23

18 19

9 3 8 5 5 2

Gold

Silver

Bronze

Green Flag

Platinum 1

Platinum 2

Platinum 3

Platinum 4

Gold Decade

Participation

Silver Decade

Bronze Decade

Diamond Decade

International Flag

Green Flag Decade

Platinum 1 Decade

International Flag Decade

INTERNATIONAL AND NATIONAL INVOLVEMENT 1. FEE update a. Eco-Schools NOM (National Operators Meeting) 2018

At our 2018 Eco-Schools National Operators Meeting (NOM) in Cork, Ireland, FEE (Foundation for Environmental Education) launched their 25th Anniversary (1994-2019) and came up with our responsibilities and engagements for the next 25 years! All the national operators signed the 25th Anniversary Declaration, which represents our commitment to growing from 68 countries to every country in the world. Helping and empowering young people to take positive actions for a sustainable future for all. “This declaration comes for the fact the Earth is facing many difficult and pressing issues, such as loss of biodiversity and climate change, so we want to reach every school with Education for Sustainable Development” , said Senior Director of Education at FEE, Pramod Kumar Sharma.

All the national operators attending NOM 2018

Declaration signed by national operators.

b. Africa network During the 2017 Eco-Schools National Operators Meeting that took place in Paris, the NGO members from the African network (Kenya, Morocco, Zanzibar, South Africa, Mauritius, Madagascar and Comoros) resolved to establish the Eco-Schools Africa Network to address the issues of limited coordination and information sharing among NGOs on the continent. The network was established thereafter, where the member NGOs met regularly via skype meetings during 2018 to share progress and give updates from the various countries. During the second Africa network meeting, it was agreed that this forum should also include the LEAF and YRE

programmes. Subsequently and in preparation for the FEE General Assembly an official process ensued that saw the submission of a proposal to the General Assembly for the:

1. Establishment of a regional Forum of FEE member NGOs and recognized by FEE Global. 2. FEE Secretariat to support current regional efforts of networking and mutual learning among FEE programs in Africa. 3. FEE Secretariat, in collaboration with FEE

member organizations in the region, to convene the first regional meeting of FEE member NGOs in Africa for in-depth discussion and consensus on the future of FEE NGOs Forum Africa. Member NGOs in the Africa region do not have an opportunity to hold side regional meetings prior for sharing concerns and

generate consensus on pertinent issues affecting FEE operations in the region; and thus, some of the issues that require redress are not given priority at international level either due to poor coordination in presentation of issues or failure to present the issues. This was supported at the General Assembly and it is envisaged that a regional forum would appropriately enhance in-depth discussion of contextual issues and generation of new ideas for further development of FEE interventions in Africa as a contribution to the overall FEE agenda on SDGs in pursuit of a common future.

2. International and provincial twinning In 2017 the twinning initiative was started by Eco-Schools England for schools from different countries to pair up and share information . Four (4) schools from South Africa made contact with schools in the UK and Brazil, however it has proven to be a bit challenging to receive responses. Pecanwood College shared their projects with their twin and Little Stars Montesorri answered questions about South Africa which their twin asked for.

Pecanwood College shared several projects, e.g. their recycling day and hyacinth removal project , with their UK twin.

In South Africa a school in KZN and a school in Gauteng was paired to share information, however more encouragement is required, and we’ll aim to expand it to different provinces for 2019. How old are your buildings? Tell us about 2 interesting ones. Our building in South Africa are not as old as yours in Britain. As the Dutch settlers arrived, they built The Castle in Cape Town. They also built the Dutch gable styled homes, such as the Groot Constantia building. Further North there are traditional African rondawels which are round huts. There are also Ndebeni tribal homes painted with geometric patterns on their walls. Examples of questions requested from a UK school and answered by Little Stars Montessori. Which month is summer/winter? Our spring is in September, October, November. Summer is in December, January, February. Autumn is March, April, May, Winter is June, July, August. We have had a terrible drought and have strict water saving in place. Our water use is restricted. What animals live in your country? Besides our domestic animals, we have wild animals in the game parks like lions, elephants, zebra, giraffe, hippopotamus, buck and many more. We have a large bird kingdom. We also have cattle as farming is a big industry. Ostrich farming has become very popular and Springbok farming too. What birds do you see? Due to our rich plant kingdom we have a huge variety of birds. Our biggest bird is the Ostrich - which cannot fly. We are next to the coast and also have plenty of coastal seabirds. The birds here adapt to the terrain which is extremely diverse. Conditions range from lush/Garden Route to dry/Karoo to coastal/windswept to humid/tropical Natal or stormy Cape/snowy Drakensburg. What indigenous flowers grow in your country? The climate here is excellent for a large floral kingdom. It is home to the famous protea plant. We have a lovely botanical garden in Cape Town called Kirstenbosch that grows many varieties of local indigenous plants.

3. Aligning to national, continental and international agendas for meaningful change Globally, strategic developmental agendas is set to improve the quality of life of people as well as for different stakeholders to collectively work towards a common purpose and common good. The WESSA Eco-Schools programme is one such partner that focuses on teaching about these crucial plans and agendas so that people can gain a deeper understanding of how they can practically contribute to make them a reality. The agendas we particularly align ourselves with are the South African National Development Plan, the African Union’s 2063 Framework and the international 17 Sustainable Development Goals. WESSA Eco-Schools believes that our practical approach to teaching and awareness about these three (3) agendas will foster a greater understanding about the interconnectedness between the social, economic, environmental and politic facets of life on our planet. This will develop the necessary skills and competencies we require to empower ordinary citizens to take action and work towards these common goals. We ensure inclusive and equitable education and promote lifelong learning opportunities which will contribute to better socio-economic landscapes in our communities. Connecting with concrete and relevant social, environmental, economic and political issues, teachers, learners and community members can take action to combat challenges like: food insecurity, climate change, well-being at all ages, gender inequality, management of water and sanitation, alternative sources of energy, sustainable economic growth and peace and justice at local and national levels. Integrating these 3 policies with the WESSA Eco-Schools programme enables ordinary South African to enhance connected thinking to make sense of such over-arching and complex agendas in the context of real-life situations which has meaning to them.

WESSA is a partner to the GAP (Global Action Programme) which reports into UNESCO and our Eco-Schools programme aligns with the 5 key priority areas :

4. ROSE competition outcome The Oil Recycling Rocks! competition run by WESSA on behalf of the ROSE foundation had colourful entries from KwaZulu-Natal, the Western Cape, the Free State, North West and Limpopo provinces. The pieces ranged from abstract works playing on colour and texture to works that directly portrayed the devastation wreaked by oil pollution on birds and marine life. Although the competition was open to Grade 6 to 11 learners most entries were Grade 10 learners. The finalists included learners fromGlenwood House (Danielle Dominick, Adrienne Vercueil and Athene Hage), from Maritzburg Christian School (Samuel Roberts, Akhona Mthembu and Sekhona Zondi), from Waterfall College (Starla Wilson), from Le-Reng Secondary (Kalane Maleshwane, Taoana Lehlohonolo and Mosamo Thato) and Lebone II College of the Royal Bafokeng (Amalia Slater). These finalists received an “oil recycling rocks jacket” for their efforts. Mr Bubele Nyiba, the ROSE Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer, selected a personal favourite artwork for an extra award. The CEO’s Special Award was awarded to Grade 10 learner, Sekhona Zondi from Maritzburg Christian School for a piece entitled “Fairwell Fair Earth”. Sekhona Zondi has earned a picnic table made from recycled plastic for the school campus. This will be a reminder to all learners that by recycling waste something useful and lasting can be created. Dr Cathy Dzerefos of WESSA thanked the participants for the effort that they put in to create artwork with the dual purpose of being aesthetically pleasing and encouraging critical thinking on human interaction with the environment. Teachers that made the effort to encourage learners to participate, have done their part in raising awareness on issues that everyone can try to improve on. The next competition will be opening soon and the closing date for submissions will be 22 April 2019 which also happens to be Earth Day. The winning entry can be viewed on www.facebook.com/WESSASchoolsProgramme/ .

5. Recycling and litter less mascots Children designed and manufactured two mascots to raise awareness about creating a cleaner, greener, healthier place one Eco-School at a time. Oepsie Ostrich met trolleypreneurs in the streets of Johannesburg, marvelled at the sea on the coast of the Eastern Cape, inspired the creation of a litter less mascot in Spain, then went on to Paris, Brazil and now Ireland visiting schools along the way. This year Namphelia Ostrich will be awarded for the 4th time as a recycling trophy and will spend the year with a host school. She has been named after WESSA’s long-term funder Nampak.

Oepsie facilitating the start of a library in Mogwashi, North West province

Oepsie at a YRE workshop where a local pupil from St Colm’s High School interviews Sameer Kaudeer from Eco-Schools Mauritius.

Oepsie getting his first taste of the ocean in the Eastern Cape province

Since leaving South Africa in November 2016, Oepsie has been to: France, Spain, Brazil and is currently in Northern Ireland.

6. Award ceremonies 2017 – held March/April 2018

The Free State Green Flag ceremony was held at district level during 4 events hosted by DESTEA and attended by Mr Kesi (in the middle), the Deputy Director at the department.

At the Eastern Cape awards VM Kwinana High School received a Gold Award and Phakamile Combined School received a Green Flag for 2017.

Hosted by Grenville High School, the North West Green Flag Ceremony had a MAD (Make-A-Difference) hat theme. Thirty awards were presented.

The Northern Cape awards ceremony was attended by the MEC, Ms Williams, from DENC (third from the left).

At the KwaZulu Natal awards ceremony 72 awards were presented and a Special award given to Ms Mkhabela from Shea O Conner for her extraordinary efforts

In the Western Cape 65 schools achieved awards and Mr Mohamed, Chief Director from WCED (second from left) attended.

The Mpumalanga awards ceremony were held at the Lowveld National Botanical Garden attended by 55 individuals including representatives from the Department of Education and DARDLEA.

The Gauteng award ceremony was held at the Emmarentia Science Centre (COJ). Various stakeholders attended and 44 awards were achieved.

The Limpopo Green Flag Ceremony was hosted by Capricorn District Municipality and attended by 220 educators where 95 awards were presented.

7. Celebrating environmental days a. Global Action Days

310+ environmental days celebrated

WESSA, together with 67 countries around the world, celebrated the actions taken towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) during the FEE Global Action Days : a week-long showcasing of the revolutionary work carried out by members of the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). Through the Global Action Days celebrated from 16 – 22 April 2018, we highlighted the activities of participating schools around the country, to showcase and share the positive actions they have coordinated, promoted and participated in throughout the year with a variety of projects that fall under several of the 17 SDGs . The 17 SDGs (adopted by world leaders in September 2015 at a historic UN Summit) came into force on 1 January 2016. With these new Goals that universally apply to all, countries will mobilize efforts to end poverty, fight inequalities and tackle climate change. The SDGs, also known as Global Goals, built on the progress of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and aim to go further to end all forms of poverty, ensuring that no one is left behind. These Goals are unique in that they call for action by all countries with all income-levels to promote prosperity while protecting the planet, recognizing that ending poverty must go hand-in-hand with strategies that build economic growth and addresses a range of social needs including education, health, social protection, and job opportunities, while tackling climate change and environmental protection. While the SDGs are not legally binding, governments are expected to take ownership and establish national frameworks for the achievement of the 17 Goals. Countries have the primary responsibility for follow-up and review of the progress made in implementing the Goals, which will require quality, accessible and timely data collection. Regional follow-up and review will be based on national-level analyses and contribute to follow-up and review at the global level. Here are a few of the stories posted on Facebook during this week: Eden College in Durban, South Africa, is working towards SDG no 5 'Gender Equality' through their Gender Committee. The students had an art exhibition at the KZNSA gallery during Human Rights Week featuring work on abuse. The Gender committee also collected clothes for Kerr House which is a home for abused women and children. Photos are of the exhibition and opening. They are in their 10th year of being a WESSA Eco-School. #globalactiondays #globalgoals #peoplecaringfortheearth

Shea O’Connor Combined School is working towards SDG 6

ISSA (International School of South Africa) is working towards SDG 1 No Hunger, 3 Good Health and wellbeing, 4 Quality Education, 14 Life on land, 11 Sustainable cities and communities through recycling and re-using, producing food, learning and enjoying nature and outreach programmes to those in need #globalactiondays #GlobalGoals #PeopleCaringForTheEarth

PLG Hartebeespoort is working towards SDG 4 Quality Education and SDG 1 No More Hunger by providing breakfast, the Oats and Milk project, to Ennis Thabong Primary. #globalactiondays #GlobalGoals #PeopleCaringForTheEarth

EDEN College Durban , South Africa, is striving towards SDG 2 - No Hunger , through their Gardening Project. A knowledgeable mother, Jo Padt, takes all Prep classes once or twice a term and gives the students hands on experience with planting, mulching, companion planting etc. Vegetables are free for all academic and cleaning staff to use. WESSA Eco-Schools. #globalactiondays #globalgoals#peoplecaringfortheearth

Brakpan Primary School , Gauteng, contributing towards SDG 6 , Clean Water and Sanitation , by ensuring access and the sustainable management of water and sanitation. Implementing tippy tap projects throughout the entire foundation phase in their School. #GlobalActionDay #GlobalGoals #PeopleCaringForTheEarth #EcoSchools

b. Rise to Climate campaign On 7 September 2018 seven Eco-Schools and one YRE school was supported by WESSA Schools Programme staff to run the Rise for climate campaign preceding the Global Climate Action Summit that was held in California later in the month. Through a variety of acts, from drama to poetry, arts and crafts, traditional songs and inspiring speeches, climate change awareness was brought to the youth and communities. This campaign was funded by 350.org.

Khahlela Primary School raising awareness around climate change in their community (LP).

Young reporters for the Environment from Eden Ridge and Cindy-Lee Cloete raising awareness around climate change (GP).

Grade 4 learners at Manor Gardens Primary each completed hand paintings pledging to #be the hands of change & rising for climate change (KZN).

Morutsi Primary School learners made posters looking at the impacts of fossil fuels (LP).

Ridgeway Primary School made 'sunflowers' with the earth in the centre. The sun symbolizes renewable energy (GP).

c. Other environmental days

Women’s day celebrated at Rasebilu Primary School (LP).

#BreakFreeFromPlastic campaign celebrated at Mama Primary School (LP).

Learners at Alzu celebrating World Rhino Day (MP).

Recycle Day celebrated at Tygerberg High School (WC).

Coastal Clean-up Day at Rylands High School (WC).

Learners at Makause Combined School celebrating Arbor Day (MP).

DARDLEA and GLENCORE officials planting trees with learners during Arbor Day (MP).

World Environment Day celebrated at Dikgabje Primary School (LP).

Arbor Day celebrated at Nelson Mandela Primary School (FS).

Water day celebrated at Highbury Primary School (WC).

Heritage Day celebrated at Creston College 2 (WC).

8. WESSA Eco-Schools programme acknowledged – Community Chest Impumelelo Award In November 2018 WESSA won the Thought Leaders award for the 2018 Community Chest Impumelelo Social Innovations Awards. This is a prestigious award with a small monetary allocation of R10 000 to be used within the project. The Community Chest Impumelelo Social Innovations Awards is a leading awards programme in South Africa, rewarding innovators who find creative solutions to public problems. Through the recent merger between Community Chest and Impumelelo, they continue to recognise outstanding organisations and individuals that provide solutions and showcase excellence in their fields. The awards programme is a vehicle that provides a far-reaching service to the people of South Africa. The programme also regularly submits the work of its award winners to the international awards programmes such as the UN Public service awards and the Dubai International Awards for best practice. Since 1999, 23 projects have won international prestigious awards. Their work serves and is influenced by three key documents: • The SA constitution’s call to build a strong civil society • The NDP’s practical 2030 vision • The 17 SDGs

All submissions were assessed against the following selection criteria: • Replication • Sustainability • Transparent and accountable financial management • Project effectiveness • Poverty impact • Social innovation

Cindy-Lee Cloete, WESSA Programme Manager, and Donavan Fullard, WESSA General Manager for Schools and Youth accept the trophy and certificate.

The Social Innovations Thought Leader award.

NAMPAK SUPPORT 1. Independently registered schools (IRS) Schools that are not funded by our current funders and register to the Eco-Schools programme fall under our ‘Independently Registered Schools’. For 2018 the registration fee was R1004 per school which is inclusive of the annual registration costs to FEE (Foundation of Environmental Education), our Eco-Schools toolkit, telephonic and email support, assessing of portfolios and awarding of certificates and flags. Nationally 463 Eco-Schools fell under the IRS category in 2018 with the majority being supported by the Environmental Departments in Northern Cape (DENC) and Free State (DESTEA). The Nampak National funding is used to provide the National Coordination and Provincial support for these schools. Photos:

Making items from waste and collecting bottle tops are entrenched projects at Grenville High School (NW) .

Mrs Olga Motshwanedi-Marimo from Matale Secondary School , a finalist in the school principals’ section of the National teachers award 2018 (NW).

Professor Mary Brydon-Miller , specialising in Educational Leadership, Evaluation, and Organizational Development at the University of Louisville (USA) facilitates a mapping exercise with teachers to identify socio-economic challenges in the community

Making a tyre pond for wildlife to have a water source during the hot summer. Lebone II College of the Royal Bafokeng (NW).

Dikgabje Primary School, celebrating World Environmental Day (LP).

Pholoho Special School's swop shop where ex-learners are employed (FS).

Merrifield High School celebrating Arbor Day (EC).

Heritage day at Merrifield Prep School and College (WC).

Women's Day celebrated at Moloke Primary School (LP).

Benefits of the programme

OTHER FUNDED SCHOOLS There were 5 YRE and 12 LEAF schools funded for 2018 as part of the launch for both these programmes in South Africa. For Eco-Schools 119 schools were funded nationally where WESSA Eco-Schools were able to provide extra support to these schools through school support visits, workshops and excursions/competitions in some cases. Each funded project has a specific focus, project cycle and deliverables. The Nampak National funding assists the support staff (General Manager, Programme Manager, National Coordinator and Financial Administrator) to support these schools indirectly as well. There were 12 funded projects this year.

Funded Schools 2018

10 15 20 25

0 5

AECI

RMB

CDM

Sasol

N3TC

Orion

Sereti

Botsoc

De Beers

Bakwena

Glencore

Van Staden

City of Tshwane

Engagement Global GP GP GP NW

KZN

YRE LEAF

Eco-Schools

Funded projects per Province and amount of schools for each project in 2018.

Map indicating location of funded schools.

Orion Van Staden Bakwena Engagement Global AECI GP

Sereti N3TC Sasol De Beers CDM Glencore BotSoc City of Tshwane RMB

WESSA LAUNCHES THE LEAF PROGRAMME WESSA launched a new environmental education programme for schools that is aimed at increasing knowledge about the key role forests play in enabling sustainable life on our planet , including the cultural, ecologic, economic and social functions and benefits. LEAF (Learning About Forests) is an innovative, international programme that encourages learners and communities to take ownership of creating healthy surroundings by engaging with their local forests and planting indigenous trees. Learners on the programme also plant food and fruit forests (vegetable gardens and fruit trees) as outdoor classrooms, to support existing structures in schools and communities. The programme was launched on 6 February at the Pretoria National Botanical Gardens with the introduction of the #OurForestsAreOurFuture campaign to a number of teachers, learners, local government representatives, nurseries, other NGOs and the Gauteng Environmental Education Forum. The campaign was a joint initiative of the WESSA LEAF programme and the City of Tshwane, who will supply trees to the schools participating in the LEAF programme in 2018. SANBI and two (2) of the City of Tshwane nature reserves provided learners from the 12 LEAF schools with free access for their natural experience. Speaking at the event, special guest and 50/50 presenter Bertus Louw said that 40% of South Africa’s forests have been destroyed and that a programme like LEAF can make a big difference in rebuilding a biome that is crucial to our survival . The learners were entertained and inspired by Bertus’ stories of the different forests he has visited across the globe, where he has seen the important role forests play: from providing us with basic furniture and creating outdoor shaded spaces for enjoyment, to protecting us from natural phenomena such as tsunamis. Participants at the launch had the opportunity to engage in several different activities in the indigenous forest of the Pretoria National Botanical Garden. These included a demonstration of the process of planting trees endemic to the Pretoria area from seeds; investigating quadrants of the forests to determine their biodiversity using technology, science and maths; and taking a closer look through magnifying glasses at the special adaptations of leaves. At the medicinal plant section of the gardens, the teachers told the learners about the plants their parents used to cure certain ailments, and highlighted the important role plants still play in the medicinal field today. The strength of the programme is in its project-based learning , and the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) approach to learning about forests. The programme helps learners, teachers and communities identify practical solutions for local and global issues , enabling them to make decisions and take ownership and responsibility for their future. This is real learning today for the real world tomorrow.

1. City of Tshwane – Gauteng

Statistics:

Photos:

Working groups discussing the importance of trees to combat climate change.

LEAF Learners made posters that described the theme Forests and Biodiversity when they visited the Pretoria National Botanical Garden.

WESSA LAUNCHES THE YRE PROGRAMME WESSA has launched a new education programme that is aimed at enabling in and out-of-school youth from 11 to 25 years to take a stand on local social and environmental issues and risks through the media of writing, photography, or video. Young Reporters for the Environment (YRE) is a youth-led environmental journalism initiative that aims to create a space for youth to reimagine and craft a socially and environmentally 'just' future while developing skills that aim to make a positive contribution and that re-address environmental injustices by highlighting issues through reporting. The programme was launched at the Sci Bono Discovery Centre in Newtown, Johannesburg, where a group of youth from five schools listened to presentations by professionals in the fields of writing, photography, and videography. A writing workshop was led by The Daily Vox , an online newsletter, and the Institute for the Advancement of Journalism. The workshop focused on the skills of interviewing different stakeholders and responsible journalism. A photography workshop facilitated by photographers from I Was Shot in Joburg and lecturers from the Market Photo Workshop. MindAd Media Thumbs Up, Bertus Louw from 50/50, and local videographer Monde Nyovane introduced the youth to the trade of videography and provided them with video and editing training for their cell phones. The three workshops also aimed to give the youth a deeper understanding of the respective trades to start their journeys as young reporters in their own communities. Future youths participating in the YRE programme will use a four-step methodological process to guide their local campaigns and will aim to enhance their skills in critical thinking, research, and problem-solving. The youth will be mentored by professionals from various fields, giving them an opportunity to learn from and explore different careers such as environmental law research, videography, investigative journalism, social justice, and politics. The programme also provides an opportunity for participants to represent South Africa in the international YRE competition held annually. YRE programme manager Cindy-Lee Cloete says, "YRE is a creative, participatory, multidisciplinary, nurturing, action and solution-oriented, and fun space for young like- minded individuals and groups that have the potential to develop leaders of change in South Africa .

Above: Young reporters from Eden Ridge High Schools .at the YRE Launch. Right top and bottom: Young reporters being interviewed by Social TV about their vision for the YRE Programme.

2. Nestlé – Gauteng

Statistics:

Photos:

Interviewing Eco-School learners at the Awards Ceremony

WITS writing centre experts interacting with young reporters

ECO-SCHOOLS

1. AECI - Gauteng

Statistics:

Photos:

O.R Tambo Primary School collecting recyclable material.

Welamlambo Primary School making a vertical garden.

Chloorkop Primary School school receiving their recycling bins.

Moduopo Primary School planting seedlings with the learners.

2. Bakwena Toll Concession – North West

Statistics:

Poster story 1:

Poster story 2:

3. Seriti - Free State

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Photos:

Learners at Doulas Care Centre being taught how to start a food garden.

Art material made by the learners out of waste material at Groenpunt Primary School .

Bokantsho Primary School learners on an excursion at a landfill site.

Bokantsho Primary School learners on an excursion at the Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden

Using harvested rainwater to water the vegetable garden at Kopanelang Thuto Primary .

Project Coordinator providing information before the planting session to Bokantsho Primary School learners.

4. N3TC - Free State

Statistics:

Photos:

Learners from Zenzeleni Educare Centre washing their hands using the tippy tap.

Learner's at Thuto ke lesedi Educare Centre learning how to make toys from recyclables.

Thuto ke Lesedi Educare Centre learners working in their food garden.

Learners from Zenzeleni Educare Centre working in their food garden.

Villiers educators discussing the themes and projects at the Free State district workshop.

5. Sasol - Free State

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Photos:

Presentation from the implementer during the Eco-Schools’ workshop at Boitjhorisong Resource Centre

One of the educators providing feedback on the group activity during the Eco-Schools workshop.

A classroom lesson before the implementation of an action project at Ledibohong P.S.P.P.

A classroom lesson before the implementation of an action project at Nelson Mandela Primary School.

Nelson Mandela Primary School learners celebrating Arbor Day.

Learners from Nelson Mandela Primary School planting seedlings in the food garden.

Kopanelang-Thuto Primary School learners interviewing the school kitchen assistants on the amount of water they use.

Learners at Kopanelang-Thuto Primary School presenting their findings after the water investigation’

Lehutso Primary School classroom lesson conducted about the role of plants in the ecosystem.

Lehutso Primary School learners celebrating Arbor Day by planting a tree.

Vaalpark Primary School learners recycling plastic lids for a wheelchair.

A wheelchair donated to the elderly at the Sweetheart Foundation .

6. De Beers – Limpopo

Statistics:

Poster story 1:

Poster story 2:

Poster story 3:

7. Capricorn District Municipality (CDM) – Limpopo

Statistics:

Photos:

Mpebe Primary School learners proud to be part of an Eco-School.

Mpebe Primary School learner conducting a waste audit.

Pula Madibogo Primary School receiving resources.

Pula Madibogo Primary School’s permaculture garden.

Pula Madibogo using water containers for drinking water as a water saving method.

8. Rand Merchant Bank (RMB) - KwaZulu Natal

Statistics:

Photos:

Planting and mulching at CorrieLynn Primary School.

Learners from Laddsworth Primary School potting pond plants

Learners from Shea ’O’ Conner Combined School making rocky shore transects.

Planting indigenous plants at Laddsworth Primary School.

MiniSASS conducted at Kings College .

Measuring a wetland at Corrie Lynn College.

Corrie Lynn College celebrating their Green Flag Decade award.

Isipingo conducting a litter clean-up.

Learners from Kloof Senior Primary capturing data on egg clumps.

Eco-brick wall at Kloof Senior

Primary School.

Kings School celebrating their Global decade award.

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