Launched by the Salesian Southern Africa Province (AFM) in Johannesburg in January 2024, the “Eco Ubuntu” project exemplifies a holistic approach to sustainable development. It aims to instill a “green mindset” within communities by facilitating accessible and practical ecological interventions. From hydroponic systems to solar panel installations and well digging, the project empowers individuals to adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives.
One of the project’s pivotal achievements is its integration of hydroponic cultivation into the education and employment pathways of disadvantaged youth. Through programs aimed at NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) youth, participants actively engage in hydroponic projects within their communities. This initiative not only addresses unemployment but also fosters environmental stewardship among young people, promoting a sense of belonging and pride in conservation efforts.
Moreover, the “Eco Ubuntu” project extends its impact to students at the “Learn to Live School of Skills” in Cape Town, providing practical hydroponic farming experiences. This hands-on learning equips students with valuable skills and a deeper commitment to sustainable agriculture.
The Salesian Hydroponic Project “Eco Ubuntu” embodies hope, resilience, and unity in tackling environmental challenges. By nurturing both the land and the people who tend to it, this initiative paves the way for a brighter and more sustainable future for generations to come.
