At WESSA we support citizen science initiatives as part of our broader mission to enable environmental stewardship and conservation.

Citizen science, where members of the public participate in scientific research, is a key component of WESSA’s approach to engaging communities in environmental monitoring and action.

However, for citizen science to be an everyday reality, young people require a basic understanding, and our programmes and partnerships facilitate key learnings to enable this.

Science meets nature

As part of the AECI Modderfontein Environmental Education Project, our latest school excursions, delivered through the WESSA Learning About Ecosystems & Forests (LEAF) Programme, offered a memorable learning experience for over 200 learners and teachers from five schools.

Learners from OR Tambo, Fish Eagle Dam, Modderfontein

Iphutheng Primary Students participating in the nature conservation group activity.

The programme focused on nature conservation and biodiversity through a series of engaging and interactive activities:

• A fun team game introduced learners to the concept of collective action for conservation.
• CAPS-aligned lessons followed, exploring topics like conservation, extinction, and endangered species.
• Learners worked in groups to investigate animal life within the reserve, presenting their findings to peers.
• The experience ended with a sensory nature walk, including time at the Fish Eagle Bird Hide for birdwatching and a walk along the river trail.

Left: Bovet Primary student learning about the different spiders of South Africa at the Modderfontein reserve
Right: Ikage Primary Student learning about tree rings

The week was a powerful reminder of the value of place-based education, where science comes to life through nature.

A heartfelt thank you to AECI and the Modderfontein Conservation Society for making these impactful excursions possible!

In the spirit of Mandela Month, WESSA and Wispeco Aluminium continued their inspiring partnership at Naledi Pre-Primary School in Katlehong, this time turning their attention to literacy and healthy living.

Building on the momentum of June’s World Environment Day, which saw the transformation of the school’s toilet facility and a joyful day of environmental education, July’s initiative focused on creating safe and inspiring spaces for learning and growth.

With the hands-on support of Wispeco Aluminium staff volunteers, Naledi’s reading corners were revamped into vibrant, welcoming areas where young learners can fall in love with stories, words, and imagination.

Simultaneously, a brand-new vegetable garden was established, offering learners a hands-on experience of where food comes from and how healthy habits begin with the soil.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela

These words guided our July activities, reminding us that education is not confined to the classroom. By nurturing both minds and bodies, this initiative is helping to unlock the full potential of Naledi’s young learners.

This collaborative effort between WESSA and Wispeco Aluminium reflects the true heart of Mandela Month, active citizenship, shared responsibility, and meaningful impact. From improving sanitation to fostering literacy and food security, we are proud to be walking this journey of transformation alongside our partners.

Together, we are creating a nurturing learning environment rooted in dignity, curiosity, and care.

Connecting learners to real-world careers

The Penreach STEAM Festival took place from 28 July – 1 August 2025 at the Shamuka STEAM Centre, Penreach College, Mbombela. Hosted in partnership with the Mpumalanga Department of Education and the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation SA, the festival opened up a world of opportunities for learners. With a focus on science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM), the event aimed to inspire and connect young people to real-world careers.

WESSA’s contribution: showcasing water innovation

WESSA was honoured to be part of this exciting festival. Our team hosted an interactive stall centred around the theme of water, one of the most critical resources for life and sustainable development. Learners visiting the stall explored demonstrations on water testing, gaining a hands-on understanding of the scientific processes involved in ensuring safe, clean drinking water.

Spotlight on the Tippy Tap system

A key highlight of WESSA’s exhibition was the tippy tap, an innovative, hands-free system for handwashing. Operated by foot, the system uses a simple pedal mechanism that allows access to water and soap without touching the container. Not only does this promote better hygiene, but it also ensures water conservation, as the flow of water automatically stops when the foot is released.

The tippy tap resonated strongly with learners, many of whom could relate it to elements of their school technology curriculum. This simple yet effective design demonstrated how innovation can solve everyday challenges, bridging classroom knowledge with practical solutions.

Inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards

By engaging learners through practical demonstrations and conversations, WESSA’s participation highlighted the importance of innovation, conservation, and science in building a sustainable future. The STEAM Festival showcased how collaboration between education, government, and civil society can spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of changemakers.

Today, on World Ranger Day, WESSA joins the global community in acknowledging the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of rangers who stand on the frontlines of conservation. This international day of reflection, commemorated annually on 31 July, pays tribute to those who have lost their lives or been injured in the line of duty, while spotlighting the significant role rangers play in safeguarding our natural heritage.

Milestone

At uMngeni Valley Nature Reserve we’ve secured the funding to establish a dedicated Anti-Poaching Unit (APU) to protect the reserve’s fragile ecosystem and wildlife.

Responding to a growing threat

Located on the urban–rural fringe of Howick in KwaZulu-Natal, uMngeni Valley is home to a variety of indigenous antelope species and small carnivores that form part of a delicate ecological balance. But in recent years, these species have come under increasing pressure from subsistence and bushmeat poaching, including snaring, night-time incursions, and dog hunting.

Without urgent intervention, populations of bushbuck, duiker and reedbuck face collapse, with significant knock-on effects for predator-prey dynamics, vegetation control, and the quality of environmental education experiences we offer to thousands of learners each year.

Community-based solution

Thanks to approved funding, WESSA will now recruit and deploy two full-time rangers for a 12-month pilot period. These locally based rangers will be equipped and trained to carry out daily patrols, conduct snare sweeps, gather intelligence, and respond rapidly to poaching incidents. The unit will also work closely with local SAPS and community stakeholders to build a stronger, more collaborative approach to wildlife protection.

“This isn’t just a conservation milestone, it’s an investment in people, ecosystems and long-term resilience,” said Adrienne West, Head of Philanthropy & Resource Mobilisation.

Building for the future

This pilot Anti-Poaching Unit is part of a broader conservation vision for uMngeni Valley. Over time, WESSA aims to integrate the unit into a sustainable management model that combines protection, research, education, and community empowerment. Data gathered through the APU will also support advocacy for increased protection and open the door to reintroducing historically extirpated species.

On this World Ranger Day, we remember those we have lost and reaffirm our commitment to protecting those who carry the baton forward. We thank our partners and funders for their support in turning this vision into action.

Join us in standing with rangers

Support WESSA’s work in conservation and education by becoming a member, volunteering, or donating to our ongoing programmes. Because protecting the planet starts with protecting those who protect it.