YOUNG MINDS AND GREEN THUMBS

Thabazimbi – On Tuesday 5 September 2023, Platinum Bushvelder paid a visit to Roosevelt Academy where the school marked National Arbour Month, which is celebrated annually from 1 to 30 September. This young school, having opened its doors only in January 2023, teaches eager learners from Grade RR to Grade 7. With the aim of highlighting the crucial role of trees and forests, the learners planted a Moringa Tree at their school premises.

Why a Moringa Tree, you might ask? Grade 7 pupil Katlego Mukhufi enthusiastically shared: “Moringa leaves are crammed full of vitamins and minerals. Plus, they help lower your blood sugar levels. How amazing is that?”

Equally enlightening was Roosevelt Academy educator Reinette Nell, who took the opportunity to provide a mini-history lesson. “Arbour Day dates back to 1872 in the United States. A man named J. Sterling Morton initiated the event because he saw the enormous benefits that trees could offer—everything from soil protection to shade. Arbour Day was later implemented on South Africa in 1983,” said Nell. 

The initiative underlines the academy’s commitment not just to education in the classroom, but also to practical, life-enhancing knowledge. It was a hands-on experience that connected the students with nature, all the while equipping them with a valuable understanding of environmental stewardship.
A big round of applause to Roosevelt Academy for encouraging young minds to think about the planet. After all, as the kids learned, caring for the environment is not just good for the Earth—it’s good for us too.

Photo: From left: Roosevelt Academy learners, Lwanda Dubazana, Katlego Mukhufi, Omaatla Mabe, and Wanisallshe Marange.