Berea __ The Ministry of Agriculture, through its Home Economics Department in Mapoteng, will host a school gardening campaign on November 27 at Sebitia Primary School.

According to Nutritionist and Area Technical Officer Ms Ntefeleng Tsolo, the campaign is a response to concerns that while schools do feed children, the meals often lack proper nutritional balance.  

“These gardens will ensure that children are able to eat meals with vegetables” Tsolo stated.

The campaign will be held under the theme: “Grow vegetables and fruits in different colours and types.” Tsolo emphasized the importance of vegetables as a source of essential vitamins that support growth, eyesight, brain function, and help prevent illnesses linked to malnutrition.

“Many children are malnourished as they don’t eat well. These school gardens will be a sustainable way to improve their health,” she said.

She further noted that schools often struggle to sustain gardens due to seasonal challenges, and the ministry will now provide seasonal vegetable varieties to ensure year-round productivity.  

The campaign targets early childhood learners, aiming to nurture a love for gardening and healthy eating habits from a young age.

The event will also include a food tasting session, led by a consultant from the World Food Program (WFP)under the School Feeding Program. The session aims to introduce students to new meal options and a proposed change to the current menu plan.