Green Classrooms: How School Gardens Are Redefining Meals and Skills

Saint Bede’s College has embarked on an innovative journey towards sustainable farming, aligning its agricultural program with practical education and sustainable practices. Since May, this initiative has provided students with valuable hands-on experience in cultivating fresh produce, which not only supplements the school’s food supply but also contributes to generating revenue.

The school project has made a significant impact by supplying over 1,000 meals to boarding students with fresh vegetables directly from its garden. Teacher Masina Petueli emphasizes that this program is not just about agriculture; it’s about equipping students with practical skills and promoting healthier eating habits.

“We have been using inorganic fertilizers, and the soil is really exhausted, so we are so thankful to the agriculture department for supplying us with the compost, and we continue to request and ask for your support,” Petueli remarked, underscoring the importance of sustainable practices in agriculture. The school’s garden, which boasts long beans, lettuce, cabbage, cucumber, and eggplant, is set to expand further.

Parallel to Saint Bede’s initiative, Kamil Muslim College in Yalalevu, Ba, is also making strides in sustainability by establishing nurseries to supply fresh leafy vegetables to the local community. Their initiative is focused on creating a sustainability hub through various green projects, including hydroponics and the utilization of solar panels. Both institutions highlight the practicality and economic benefits of sustainable farming practices in educational settings.

These educational initiatives not only aim to ensure a consistent supply of fresh produce for students and nearby communities but also foster a sense of responsibility and innovation among students. As educational institutions progress with these sustainable models, they offer a promising blueprint for integrating environmental consciousness into school curricula, thereby preparing students for a future where sustainable practices are pivotal.