Nkwambazi Primary School has expressed its gratitude to AFGRI for its continued support in promoting food security, agricultural education and sustainable farming practices among learners and the local community.

School selected for agricultural development programme

The school, led by principal Zakhele Selby Xulu, is one of 28 schools in the Ngotshe Ward under the Bhekuzulu Circuit Management Centre (CMC) selected to benefit from an agricultural development programme sponsored by AFGRI.

The initiative aims to promote permaculture, agroecology and food security while equipping learners and community members with practical agricultural skills and knowledge.

Resources donated to strengthen school garden

On Friday, AFGRI donated a range of agricultural resources to the school, including garden tools, manure, seeds and sprayers to assist in establishing and maintaining the school’s vegetable garden.

The school also received an irrigation system, a stand-alone water tap and two sprinklers to improve water management and support year-round crop production.

Xulu thanked AFGRI management, particularly Mpati Lesiba Mojapelo, for ensuring that the school was included in the project.

He also acknowledged Ruan Nel from AFGRI Retail Vryheid for assisting with the transportation of the donated equipment and supplies.

Training programme equips learners and community members

As part of the programme, AFGRI, in partnership with UBUMBANO, sponsored a four-day agricultural training course. Three learners, three community members and the principal attended the intensive training programme, which focused on primary agriculture and crop establishment.

Participants gained practical knowledge on monitoring and managing crops and were awarded accredited certificates upon completion of the course.

Preparing learners for future opportunities

“Our aim is to expose learners to opportunities within the agricultural sector and inspire them to become entrepreneurs, innovators and problem-solvers. We want them to develop critical-thinking skills and gain practical knowledge that will benefit them in the future,” said Xulu.

He added that the school is also embracing digital learning through the use of five donated computers, helping learners become technologically literate and better prepared for modern working environments.

Teamwork drives the project’s success

Xulu further thanked the educators, members of the School Governing Body and support staff for their dedication and commitment to making the project a success.

Supporting global food security goals

He said the initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2, which aims to end hunger, achieve food security, improve nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture by 2030.

“The support from AFGRI has given our learners and community members an opportunity to gain valuable skills while contributing to food security. Together, we are planting the seeds for a healthier and more sustainable future,” Xulu concluded.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.