The School Garden Project Nears Full Readiness for Implementation as Ubunthu Expands Climate-Smart Agriculture Initiative in Choma.

In picture..Choma DEBS far right and ESO on the far Left with the Ubunthu team

After successfully piloting the School Garden Project with selected schools for one year, with support from JBS, Ubunthu is now ready to implement its own Climate-Smart Agriculture School Garden Project in Choma District.

Looking ahead, Ubunthu Enablers Organization is entering a new phase of growth through a private partnership agreement aimed at expanding the project within Choma District. The organization is currently screening six schools, from which four will be selected to join the programme. This expansion reflects growing confidence in the project’s impact and sustainability.

The initiative has already received strong support from the District Education Board Secretary (DEBS) in Choma, who has welcomed the programme and expressed readiness to collaborate with Ubunthu. Formalization of this partnership is underway, with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) expected to be signed as the organization officially rolls out its Climate-Smart Agriculture School Gardens Programme in the district.

Working closely with the District Education Board Secretary (DEBS) office, as well as school management teams, head teachers, and teachers, the project will ensure that essential preparations are completed across the four participating schools.

Capacity building remains a key component of the initiative. This includes Training of Trainers (ToT) sessions and lead teacher training on best agricultural practices, which will be conducted at AKTC in Chisamba, Central Province.

Teachers responsible for supervising the gardens will receive guidance on recommended planting procedures, ensuring that crops are established using best practices. With consistent oversight, the gardens are expected to perform well throughout the 18-month Phase One stage, before the project is rolled out to additional schools.

To maintain project standards and ensure accurate monitoring, schools will be required to conduct all gardening activities within designated project areas. This approach supports effective evaluation of outcomes and promotes the long-term sustainability of the initiative.

As the Climate-Smart Agriculture School Garden Project transitions into the planting and expansion phase, it stands as a promising model for integrating agriculture, education, and sustainability. With continued collaboration between schools, local authorities, and development partners, the initiative is well-positioned to enhance food security, practical learning, and environmental stewardship among learners in Choma District.