1. Introduction
MetPac-SA was invited by the event organiser, Ms Mandisa Duma, to participate in the World Environment Day celebration held at Chibelihle Combined School on 5 June 2026. The event was hosted under the theme “Our Environment, Our Responsibility.”
Ms Duma is a former learner of Chibelihle Combined School and has demonstrated a strong commitment to environmental sustainability through her involvement in small-scale recycling initiatives. She has expressed an interest in expanding these activities to create a broader impact within the community.
The event brought together a range of stakeholders from government, the private sector, and non-governmental organisations, all of whom contributed valuable insights and information to learners.
2. Objectives
The primary objectives of the event were to:
- Raise awareness among learners about environmental preservation and sustainable practices.
- Introduce learners to educational and career opportunities within the environmental and recycling sectors.
- Encourage active participation in recycling and environmental stewardship within their communities.
3. Programme Proceedings
It should be noted that the event commenced later than the scheduled start time of 08:30. As a result, several planned activities, including the Sorting Game, Recycling Exhibition, and Role Play sessions, could not be accommodated.
The programme was facilitated by Mr Aphelele Ngubane from the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture.
Key highlights of the programme included:
- Opening prayer delivered by Ms Majola, a teacher at Chibelihle Combined School.
- Welcome and introductory remarks by Ms Duma, who outlined the objective of promoting recycling awareness among learners.
- A performance by primary school learners featuring the environmental song “Reuse, Reduce and Recycle.”
- Presentations by three high school learners covering environmental awareness, water conservation, tree planting, community advocacy, and the relationship between everyday activities and environmental degradation.
- A display of toys and products made from recycled materials by primary school learners, facilitated by Ms N. Mthiyane and the school prefects.
Stakeholder Presentations
Institute of Natural Resources (INR)
Representatives highlighted initiatives aimed at environmental conservation, including community tree-planting programmes, water quality testing to support farmers and communities, and sustainable agricultural practices such as no-till farming.
Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
The department addressed issues related to livestock management and environmental health, with particular emphasis on the dangers posed by improperly discarded plastics and disposable nappies, which can contribute to livestock fatalities.
MetPac-SA
MetPac-SA presented on the importance of source separation, the various categories of recyclable materials, and the economic opportunities available through recycling. Learners were encouraged to collect and recycle metal cans as a means of generating supplementary income.
MKG Solutions
The Pietermaritzburg-based recycling company outlined the types of recyclable materials they process and introduced their school-based programme, “Zithande Mzansi.” Additional topics included composting, rainwater harvesting, and the use of cow dung as an alternative fuel source.
SAPPI
Representatives Ms Z. Luthuli and Ms L. Madyibi showcased products derived from sustainable forestry operations and informed learners about bursary opportunities available to Grade 11 and 12 learners.
Centre for Environmental Rights (CER)
The organisation provided an overview of environmental rights in South Africa, including issues related to water contamination and the environmental protections contained in Section 24 of the Constitution.
Guest Speaker – Mr Jwara
Mr Jwara, a manager within the Department of Agriculture and a former learner of Chibelihle Combined School, encouraged learners to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset and explore opportunities beyond traditional office-based employment. He commended Ms Duma’s initiative and urged learners to pursue bursaries and establish recycling projects within their community.
Exhibition and Fashion Show
Following the presentations, stakeholders hosted a mini-exhibition on the school sports field, where learners engaged directly with exhibitors. Feedback indicated significant interest in bursaries, career opportunities, and environmental programmes offered by participating organisations.
The event concluded with a fashion show by primary school learners, who showcased creative garments made from recyclable materials such as plastic and cardboard.
4. Recommendations
While the event successfully achieved its objectives, the programme was overly ambitious for the available time. Future events should consider reducing the number of presentations and activities to allow for greater engagement and participation.
In addition, support should be explored for Ms Duma’s efforts to establish a community buy-back centre, as she has already laid the groundwork for local recycling initiatives.
5. Conclusion
The World Environment Day event at Chibelihle Combined School was a successful awareness-raising initiative that effectively promoted environmental responsibility and sustainability among learners. It also provided valuable exposure to educational, career, and entrepreneurial opportunities within the environmental sector.
The active participation of stakeholders and learners demonstrated strong community interest in environmental preservation and recycling, laying a foundation for future initiatives within the area.
