Youngsters encouraged to ‘go green’ during school holidays
The July school holidays have arrived, and so has the Botanical Society of South Africa KZN Coastal Branch Winter Holiday Programme.
Now in its fourth year of connecting young people with the natural world, the programme is held at three different green venues in Durban each sporting a sporting different ecosystem.
Two of eThekwini’s natural areas feature: Burman Bush Nature Reserve (July 13) and the Beachwood Mangroves (July 15), and the oldest surviving botanical garden in Africa, the Durban Botanic Gardens (July 17).
Each day stands on its own as a complete and different unit, following a similar format, beginning at 8.00, running until 14:30 with breaks for liquid refreshments and food (to be brought by the participant). Filtered water will be provided so participants must bring a refillable bottle.
Also read: Guided walk series at Durban Botanic Gardens returns this July
“Children from 10 to 15 years old take part in environmentally focused activities, guided walks, some tune-out time with various creative pursuits – and a whole lotta’ fun!” said convenor and environmental education guide of 20 years, Christine Sole.
Suvarna Parbhoo Mohan, Chairperson of The Branch, noted, “We offer this annual programme because we believe a love for biodiversity starts young. Through eco-games and hands-on discovery during the Winter Holiday Programme, young people will learn about plant identification, ecological relationships, and our place in the web of life.
Also read: Join educational walk at Durban Botanic Gardens
“With nearly fifty youngsters discovering the natural world around them last year, the Winter Holiday Programme continues to prove that a love for biodiversity truly does start young.”
Interested parents may contact Christine Sole (cell/WhatsApp 083245 8347) and on email (cagsole@gmail.com) for more detailed information.
Bookings may be made through Sandra (Cell/WhatsApp: 071869 3693) or by email (botsoc-kzn@mweb.co.za).
The fee per child is on a sliding scale, which includes discounts for siblings/friends and the number of days attended.
For more from Berea Mail, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here
