The NFRF (New Frontiers in Research Fund) Action Learning Set (ALS) recently convened through Mandela University’s Engagement Office and comprising University staff, school representatives, community leaders, First Nation Gamtouers, and partner organisations, recently gathered to advance the implementation of the project.
Graslaagte Primary School in Humansdorp as the central site of exploration, with the Association for Persons with Disabilities (APD) Motherwell’s food garden project joining as partner sites, were reaffirmed. Work will unfold across five intersecting strands:
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establishing eco-gardens with drought-adapted crops
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developing living classrooms and digital learning spaces
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co-creating a virtual archive and storytelling platform
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supporting parent and community entrepreneurship initiatives and
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embedding water stewardship through curriculum-linked activities.
The participants emphasised the importance of intergenerational learning, youth voice, and Indigenous knowledge as cornerstones of resilient food and water practices.
Plans included curriculum alignment with CAPS, baseline community assessments, and the creation of entrepreneurial opportunities for learners and parents through school gardens, recycled materials, and cooperative ventures.
The integration of digital storytelling and virtual platforms further emphasised the commitment to amplifying community voices and broadening access.
The gathering laid the foundation for participatory curriculum development, community resilience strategies, and cross-cultural knowledge exchange.
It reinforced the vision of schools as hubs for environmental learning and socio-economic transformation, grounded in shared responsibility for the land and water.