The University’s ongoing initiative to enhance food security, well-being, and promote the empowerment of women and schools is taking significant strides on the island of Taveuni.
This initiative, which aligns with the University’s Strategic Plan, which is thriving on inclusiveness, diversity, educational excellence and student affirming experiences is fostering community engagement, enhancing agricultural education, and promoting sustainable practices in the region.
By creating a platform for students and communities to engage in gardening activities, Pro Vice-Chancellor Learning and Teaching Professor Jimaima Lako says the project aims to instil a sense of community and collaboration. The initiative also encourages healthy eating by promoting the consumption of locally grown produce, empowering communities to take charge of their food sources and long term to address the malnutrition cases on the island.
“The project also offers hands-on learning experiences in agriculture, biology, nutrition and environmental science. Through the promotion of sustainable gardening practices, students will learn to grow their own crops and vegetables using organic fertilizers and water conservation techniques. This approach ensures that future generations of agriculturalists have the skills to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s food security needs,” Professor Lako said
Two high schools on Taveuni, South Taveuni Secondary School and Niusawa Methodist High School were selected to participate in the Schools Gardening Competition. Both schools are Health Promoting Schools under the Ministry of Education.
“During the visit to the schools in November last year, workshops were held, covering important topics related to food gardening. Students participated in discussions on healthy eating, gardening practices, and sustainable agriculture. The visits also included a survey that assessed community and student knowledge of agricultural education and its link to health.”
The competition aims to foster a sense of equality and diversity, inviting students of all backgrounds to participate. With the inclusion of community members, particularly mothers, as co-participants, the project promotes a collaborative environment where everyone’s contributions are valued.
In alignment with the goals of the University’s strategic plan, Professor Lako added the competition emphasises the importance of sustainable gardening practices with community participation.
“Students and community members will be encouraged to use organic fertilisers, adopt water conservation techniques, and practice environmental stewardship. By adopting these sustainable practices, the initiative aims to contribute to environmental sustainability while preparing students to play a role in addressing food security challenges in the future.”
This project marks an exciting and impactful step toward promoting food security, education, community collaboration, eating what they grow and environmental sustainability in Taveuni.