The Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA) recently concluded its annual Eco-Schools Programme provincial awards, celebrating the remarkable achievements of over 350 schools nationwide that are actively championing sustainability, climate action, and environmental education. This year’s awards serve not only as a commendation but also as an inspiration for learners throughout South Africa to engage in and address pressing environmental challenges.

According to Nomfundo Ndlovu, the Senior Programme Manager for Schools and Youth at WESSA, “These awards are a testament to the power of climate change education in building informed, proactive, and resilient communities. Through the Eco-Schools programme, learners across South Africa are addressing environmental challenges and driving change within their school communities that create sustainable impact. It is an honour to support and celebrate the leadership of our youth in shaping a better world.”

• Western Cape: A total of 35 schools were honoured for their outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability, with five achieving the prestigious Green Flag status, which recognises global excellence in environmental education. The awards ceremony also acknowledged four Platinum Awards, two Gold Awards, and two International Flags. Special decade recognitions were given to schools such as Sir Lowry’s Pass Primary and Newberry House Montessori Primary School for their sustained leadership in the Eco-Schools programme.
• Mpumalanga: In this province, 18 schools were awarded, with an impressive 13 achieving Platinum 2 status. Five Glencore-supported schools were recognised with Bronze Awards, while six additional schools marked the beginning of their Eco-Schools journey at the participation level.
• Free State: In collaboration with the Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism & Environmental Affairs, WESSA recognised an impressive 120 schools for their environmental achievements and community engagement. Among these, Zamaleka Primary School secured the prestigious Diamond Award, while Retshedisitswe Secondary School was honoured with a Gold Award, reflecting deep-rooted commitments to sustainability.
• KwaZulu-Natal: The province honoured 46 schools, with ten receiving Green Flag awards. A highlight was the Strelitzia Award presented to The Birches Pre-Primary and Epworth School for over two decades of dedication to the Eco-Schools programme. Young environmental advocate Romario Valentine inspired attendees with a keynote address urging collective responsibility for nature.
• Gauteng: Acknowledging 76 schools, including 42 from the ADvTECH Group and six Sun International Eco-Schools—all awarded Green Flags. YERA participant Khonaye Gcaza delivered an impassioned speech detailing her journey from Eco-Club founder to national youth advocate, spotlighting her innovative green roof prototype.
• Eastern Cape: Kabega Primary School was awarded the WESSA Group Award for its extensive contributions to local conservation projects and clean-ups. Nineteen schools were recognised in the province, with specific commendations for maintaining their environmental commitment over the last decade.
• Limpopo: Sixteen schools were honoured, with 6 achieving Green Flag status. Notable achievements included Maribe Primary School receiving the Diamond Award for its exceptional engagement in environmental education.

The WESSA Eco-Schools Programme, part of a global initiative active in 101 countries, promotes a transformational approach in schools by integrating sustainability deeply into the curriculum and school culture. Supported by the South African government and various private sector partners, WESSA’s efforts contribute significantly to tackling climate change, biodiversity loss, and equipping youth with the skills necessary to lead future environmental initiatives.

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