The 2024 Eastern Cape Provincial Environmental Awards, held at the East London International Convention Centre (ICC) on 20 September 2024, celebrated schools dedicated to environmental sustainability. Learners from across the province showcased their creativity and commitment to environmental conservation, competing in categories for both primary and high schools.
In the primary schools category, BB Mdledle Primary School from Chris Hani District Municipality took the top prize, followed by Bhaliti Primary School from Amathole District in second place. Zandise Primary School from Joe Gqabi District came third, with Didi Primary School from Alfred Nzo District and Libode Private School from OR Tambo District securing fourth and fifth place, respectively. Enkululekweni Primary School from Sarah Baartman District rounded off the top six.
For high schools, A. M. Zantsi Senior Secondary School from Chris Hani District and Motherwell High School from Sarah Baartman District shared the first prize. Baleni Senior Secondary School from Alfred Nzo District won third place, while Mgezwa Junior Secondary School from OR Tambo District took the fourth place. Both Sterkspruit Community School from Joe Gqabi District and Enkwenkwezini High School from Amathole District took the fifth place.
The MEC for Economic Development, Environmental Affairs, and Tourism (DEDEAT), Hon. Nonkqubela Pieters, congratulated the winners, emphasising the significance of the competition. “All participants are winners,” she said, “having successfully navigated through rigorous local and district levels competitions to reach the provincial stage.”
MEC Pieters praised the competition for fostering environmental awareness among learners. “This competition goes beyond classroom learning; it instils a sustainability ethic that will drive positive change in our communities. These young minds represent the future of our province, and their commitment to environmental sustainability is truly inspiring.”
She also highlighted the journey that began in February 2024, with over 800 learners participating in regional competitions across the province’s six districts. The competition encourages students to address pressing environmental issues through creative expressions such as theatre, art, music, and research.
In line with its mission to reduce climate-related disasters and promote sustainable development, DEDEAT has allocated R4.4 million over three financial years to support the competition. Schools are encouraged to use the prize money to enhance environmental projects that formed part of their competition submissions.
MEC Pieters concluded by stressing that empowering young people with the knowledge and skills to tackle environmental challenges is key to safeguarding the future of the province and the country.
