Growing Plants, Growing People

Kouga Dam (SA): The recently opened Learning Lapa at the Learning Village was warmed by presence of both U.S students and children from farm dwelling communities nearby the Kouga Dam area.

Victoria Willman, manager of the Working for Woodlands Nursery at the PRESENCE Learning Village, gave visiting Wildlands Studies students an introductory workshop into the hands-on ‘nuts and bolts’ of plant species from the thicket and fynbos biomes.

The students then got their hands dirty with the delightfully inquisitive children to learn the art of planting together. The children were quick learners and displayed a knack for seed sowing, potting and pruning. After a group lunch, each child proudly departed with a photo of them and their very own little spekboom tree.

“This is what this new Learning Lapa is meant to be about – cross-cultural learning and giving community and youth the chance to feel a valued part of  the PRESENCE Learning Village.” reflected Living Lands director Dieter Van den Broeck.

The Learning Lapa was made possible through funding from the Dutch Government’s Water for Food and Ecosystems Programme and the ever generous in-kind support from Gamtoos Irrigation Board.

For more information on the Wildlands Studies programme, click here.