Pictured above: (top) WESSA Staff and Mzuvele learners and teacher rolling up sleeves to clear alien vegetation; (bottom left) WESSA Schools staff hard at work alongside learners; (bottom right) WESSA National Membership Coordinator Clearing helping with the clearing.
On 17 November 2025, the WESSA team joined Mzuvele High School for a hands-on environmental restoration initiative focused on clearing invasive alien plants that had overtaken the school’s food garden. What began as an educational engagement soon grew into a meaningful day of teamwork, leadership, and renewed environmental stewardship.
Understanding the impact of invasive species
The day opened with an informative session highlighting the importance of controlling invasive alien plants and the serious threats they pose to local ecosystems. Learners explored how these species compete with indigenous vegetation, reduce biodiversity, and undermine water and soil health, key concerns for a school that is working hard to maintain a productive food garden.
This learning laid the foundation for the practical work ahead, helping students recognise that caring for the land begins with understanding the challenges it faces.
A collaborative clearing effort with lasting benefits
After the briefing, learners and the WESSA team worked together to clear the affected area. Through shared effort and determination, a total of two hectares were successfully restored, reclaiming vital agricultural space and ensuring the sustainability of the school’s food production efforts.
The clearing session offered more than just environmental benefits. It strengthened learners’ understanding of conservation, nurtured teamwork, and helped them build confidence in their role as young environmental leaders.
Pictured above: Learners doing some heavy lifting
Celebrating environmental leadership
Following the clearing work, Mzuvele High School hosted a special award ceremony honouring Grade 12 Eco Club members for their leadership throughout the year. Their recognition highlighted the ongoing commitment of learners who continue to drive environmental awareness and positive change at the school.
In a meaningful gesture of partnership, WESSA was also awarded a certificate of appreciation for supporting the school’s efforts to promote sustainability and environmental awareness.
Pictured above: WESSA team receives a certification of appreciation by Mzuvele High School staff.
Growing stewardship and climate resilience
This initiative not only restored land and strengthened the school’s food garden, it reinforced learners’ identity as ecological stewards. Their active participation demonstrated how young people can make meaningful contributions to the sustainability and climate resilience of their school and community.
The day stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved when environmental education and action come together.