On Friday, 7 March, students and staff gathered at the Vanderbijlpark campus garden, near Kumba Residence to take part in an inspiring initiative led by Prof Magda Kloppers and the staff of the School of Mathematics, Science and Technology Education (SMSTE) at the Faculty of Education.
The gathering marked the launch of the "Adopt a 4-Door-Sized Spot" Garden Project, a movement aimed at fostering food security, sustainability, and community engagement on campus.
Participants eagerly embraced the opportunity to claim their own garden spots, planting vegetables, herbs, indigenous plants, and edible flowers in prepared soil beds and recyclable containers. With compost, fertilizer, and expert guidance provided, the initiative encouraged students to nurture their own green spaces while learning valuable sustainable gardening techniques.
Several campus societies actively supported the project, including Ch@s Peer Helpers from Student Counselling and Development, UNICEF, and the Royal House Society. Their presence highlighted the collaborative spirit of the event and reinforced the project's mission of contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Zero Hunger, Good Health, and No Poverty.
Beyond the physical benefits of fresh produce, the initiative also emphasized mental well-being, reflection, and community-building. Students committed to sharing their gardening journeys through bi-weekly reflections while also inviting friends and family to join the movement. Meetings with students from the Faculty of Health Science and the Faculty of Agriculture will provide further opportunities for knowledge exchange and growth.
The "Adopt a Spot" Garden Project proved to be more than just a gardening initiative—it became a platform for empowerment, education, and sustainability. “With every seed planted, participants took a step toward a healthier and more self-sufficient future, demonstrating that small actions can indeed transform our world,” said Prof Kloppers
A group of enthusiastic B.Ed. students actively participate in a gardening activity as part of their community outreach programme, harvesting fresh vegetables, including spinach, from a well-maintained garden. Two students proudly display their freshly picked spinach while Prof Magda Kloppers observes in the background, overlooking the garden with keen interest.
