Nandi Primary learners explore careers in South Africa’s green economy

Learners at Nandi Primary School were given a glimpse into the growing opportunities within South Africa’s green economy during a career exposure programme held at the school on September 4.

The initiative, hosted by Litha Energy Solutions (LES) through its Skills Pipeline Initiative, sought to expose learners to careers linked to environmental sustainability, recycling, waste management, renewable energy and the circular economy.

ALSO READ: Eldorado Park school gets new multi-purpose sports field

The programme brought together organisations and speakers from different sectors, including Pikitup and PETCO, to demonstrate to learners that protecting the environment can also open doors to future careers.

Speaking about the initiative, LES founder Nompumelelo Sidu said the purpose of the day was to speak to the learners and engage them about keeping the environment clean, as well as simple things such as how to treat trash.

“A lot of our learners see their uncles and aunts collecting waste, but they do not know what happens to it. A part of them sees the green economy, but they do not know how to participate and be a part of that change. Part of the initiative is rehabilitating the school’s food garden, where we will be planting some vegetables so that they can see and know where the food comes from,” Sidu said.

ALSO READ: Kay Motsepe Schools Championship crowns two U/15 netball winners

She added that they are also restyling the recycling station at the school, where learners will learn how to treat trash and generate income from it.

“A lot of our learners know mainstream skills or careers, but a lot is happening in the green economy and renewable space. We want to open that world to them and let them know that they can participate in that space and that, when they do, they can also be future employers and entrepreneurs.”

Sidu said they chose to engage with foundation phase learners because they aim to get learners out of the classroom so that they get a better understanding.

“They must know how to take care of the environment they live in, and they will transfer this knowledge back home. We have huge socio-economic issues, and when we engage the learners and have them participate actively in these spaces, they can use them in their own spaces. Who knows — maybe next year we will be visiting their own gardens at their homes.”

Zanele Nhlapo from the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development said such initiatives are vital in communities and everyone should play a role.

“We only have one planet we live in and we all play a role in polluting it. Instead of a handful of people playing a role in trying to educate, plant and green it, it will be impactful if everyone had a role to play in conserving the environment,” Nhlapo said.