Ntithane Combined School learners urged to lead environmental protection
Ntithane Combined School hosted an awareness campaign encouraging learners to conserve water, manage waste, and protect resources.
Learners at Ntithane Combined School in Entombe were encouraged to take an active role in protecting the environment by conserving water, managing waste responsibly, and preserving natural resources for future generations.
The call was highlighted during the School Land Care Awareness Campaign hosted by the Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (DARDLEA) at the school on October 20.
According to DARDLEA Environmental Services agricultural manager in the Gert Sibande District Thandeka Nkosi, the campaign aimed to raise awareness about the need to protect natural resources, including water, soil, air and biodiversity, while encouraging learners and community members to adopt environmentally responsible practices.
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“The campaign forms part of the department’s LandCare Programme, which addresses environmental challenges such as land degradation, poor waste management, water conservation and the spread of invasive alien plants,” she said. “These plants can consume excessive amounts of water and threaten biodiversity.”
Practical conservation outside the classroom
She said that activities during the campaign included exhibition stalls, tree planting, live demonstrations and a school clean-up.
These practical activities gave participants an opportunity to engage with environmental conservation beyond the classroom.
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Nkosi added that protecting natural resources is important because clean water is essential for drinking, sanitation and agriculture, while proper waste management helps prevent pollution and keeps communities healthy.
Conserving soil and protecting biodiversity also support food production and the balance of ecosystems.
Through the campaign, learners were encouraged to carry these lessons into their homes and communities, helping to build a culture of environmental responsibility among younger generations.
