Catholic Scouts Launch Tree-Planting Program in Malawi Schools
Supported by German benefactors and local Catholics, the initiative represents a collaborative approach to environmental education in Malawi.
LILONGWE, MALAWI— Catholic Scouts in the Archdiocese of Lilongwe have launched a tree-planting initiative targeting secondary schools to promote environmental stewardship among students, writes Brenard Mwanza.
Inspired by Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si on climate change, the program aims to engage students in ecological conservation and awareness.
Violet Machika, Scouts Coordinator for the archdiocese, said the initiative extends beyond environmental restoration.
"We plant fruit trees, providing a nutritional benefit alongside the ecological advantages," Machika said.
The program has already been implemented at Likuni Boys Secondary School and St. Maria Goretti Girls Catholic Secondary School.
Students are planting 100 tree seedlings per school, including banana, mango, orange, and pawpaw varieties. The scouts are collaborating with school Wildlife Clubs to ensure ongoing maintenance and monitoring.
Sr. Sreelatha Kudumula, principal of St. Maria Goretti Girls Catholic Secondary School, highlighted the educational value of the programme.
"Learners will gain an understanding of trees' importance and develop a sense of responsibility towards nature," she said.
Supported by German benefactors and local Catholics, the initiative represents a collaborative approach to environmental education in Malawi.
The program underscores a growing commitment to ecological awareness among young people, leveraging student enthusiasm to address environmental challenges.
Our country has no institutional memory! Sister, there is nothing new or innovative in this!
This was the mainstay of Kamuzu. MULUZI deleted them! The current MCP have no idea about the core values of those values... and not motivated to do literature review!