Unconventional planting
SOPHIATOWN - The seemingly simple task of planting is getting a makeover at Sparrow Schools in Sophiatown.
SOPHIATOWN – Sparrow Combined School in Sophiatown is stepping up their agriculture with a new method of planting.
Nedbank Group partnered with the Johannesburg Department of Social Development to make a nine-by-six metre vegetable tunnel a reality for the school on 20 June.
Pearl Nkosi , Sparrow School’s fundraising assistant and media liaison, said that the school was thrilled to be trying out this different method of planting. “It saves water since the plants are individually bagged, eliminates the presence of bugs and the use of the fertilizer solutions applied in this planting method optimises plant production,” she said.
“The project cost over R40 000 but thanks to partners, Nedbank Personal Loans, who contributed the finances, and Green Solutions, who donated their expertise and equipment, the department is eradicating poverty while establishing sustainable projects,” Anele Sipamla, the Department of Social Development’s programme coordinator said.
The project started off with the pupils and staff lining out the measured area with bucketed spinach plants.They were careful to leave narrow aisles wide enough to water the plants. The netted hood capped the process – and it’s high enough for the average adult to stand under.
“This tunnel couldn’t have come at a better time,” school principal Mark Cloete said.
Sparrow is a school for pupils with varying cognitive and learning abilities. The school introduced agriculture studies as part of their Grade 9 certificate adapted skills programme. This curriculum also includes baking and sewing.
