[Image top: Kahobotjha-Sakhubusha Secondary School & (bottom) Nkgopoleng Secondary School]
In August 2025, learners from two Free State schools took bold steps toward tackling the global plastic crisis through clean-up campaigns and an innovative design challenge. Nkgopoleng Secondary School and Kahobotjha-Sakhubusha Secondary School partnered with WESSA and UNEP’s Tide Turners Plastic Challenge to explore practical, curriculum-linked solutions for waste management.
From awareness to action
On 20–21 August, clean-up campaigns were hosted at both schools with the aim of raising awareness about the importance of a clean environment while introducing learners to the circular economy concept.
The programmes began with ice-breaker activities and a presentation on plastic waste, followed by hands-on clean-up sessions around the schoolyards. Learners analysed the types of waste collected, discussed sorting at source, and explored how recycling and reuse can be integrated into classroom learning.
These activities not only offered practical applications of waste management but also helped the schools prepare for the UNEP Tide Turners Plastic Challenge design competition. Learners completed their summative assessments and badge activities as part of the campaign wrap-up.
The design challenge showcase
On 28 August 2025, the excitement culminated at the Boitjhorisong Resource Centre in Sasolburg, where both schools showcased their recycling and upcycling projects. Adjudicators assessed entries based on innovation in reducing single-use plastics, sustainability of the approach, product durability, and how well learners connected their projects to classroom contexts.
The Indaloyami Buyback Centre partnered in the initiative, capturing accurate tonnage data of recycled waste to ensure fairness during adjudication.
A fair finish, shared victories
The competition results reflected the strengths of both schools. While one excelled in upcycling and the other in recycling, their overall points balanced out. The final outcome was a tie, with prizes shared equally and outstanding learners recognised for their exceptional contributions.
This fair result underscored the collaborative spirit of the challenge and left both schools motivated to continue innovating in waste management and environmental stewardship.
Enabling young changemakers
The UNEP Tide Turners Plastic Challenge has once again shown how young people can lead by example, combining knowledge with action to address pressing environmental issues. Through hands-on activities, curriculum integration, and creative problem-solving, learners are shaping a future where waste is seen not as an end, but as a resource.