From Seeds to Leaders: EduPlant Competition Winners Announced

Schools celebrated during World Food Month for developing thriving food gardens that fight food insecurity and hunger

Press release

Food & Trees for Africa (FTA), in partnership with Tiger Brands, is proud to announce the winners of the 2025 EduPlant Finals Competition.

This prestigious event celebrates the incredible achievements of South African schools that are transforming their grounds into vibrant living classrooms through permaculture food gardening, cultivating both food security and environmental champions.

Dilopye Pre-Vocational School from Gauteng took the first place National Centre of Excellence Award, while Molefe Mooke Primary School from Gauteng received first place in the National Award category.

Tiger Brands, committed to being a force for good in society, continues to support this initiative. Maanda Milubi, Group Enterprise and Supplier Development & Transformation Director, Tiger Brands, commented, “EduPlant is rooted in Tiger Brands’ purpose to nourish and nurture more lives every day, so it is a proud moment to witness the results of the programme and the positive difference it has made to so many children across the country. We celebrate the hundreds of schools that took up the challenge and implemented EduPlant’s training and practical knowledge with excellence.”

Above: arrivals and registrations

Growing Futures from the Ground Up

Now in its 28th year, the EduPlant Programme is a flagship initiative that tackles the critical challenge of malnutrition and hunger in South Africa. Over the past two years, the programme has fostered agricultural and environmental literacy and self-sufficiency in hundreds of under-resourced schools.

Chris Wild, Executive Director of Food & Trees for Africa, noted, “Whilst food security and nutrition is at the core of the EduPlant Programme, it is also much more than that. We see learners becoming leaders; they practice communication and teamwork skills and have experiences that they otherwise would not have. These learners will carry these experiences with them for the rest of their lives, and I feel privileged to be part of something that can influence a learner to such an extent.”

The impact of these gardens is profound. They provide essential nutrients to children, consequently improving their academic performance. This success also creates a powerful ripple effect. Financial savings from food purchases are strategically re-routed, allowing schools to invest in garden resources, educational materials, educator training, and volunteer stipends, uplifting the entire community. Furthermore, schools with community-supported gardens report better neighbourhood relationships, reduced vandalism, and decreased absenteeism, strengthening the social fabric of their communities.

Above: presentations and motivations

A Return to In-Person Excellence

The 2024/2025 cycle culminated in a prestigious in-person event at Konka Tours in Rustenburg, marking a return to physical gatherings since the shift to virtual competition during COVID-19. Thirty-two finalist schools emerged as the top school food gardens in the country, competing for a share of R221,000.00 in cash prizes to support further food-growing efforts.

Learners and educators were flown and bussed from all parts of South Africa to represent their schools. For many, this journey was a life-changing first: leaving their towns and joining peers from across the country for a two-day, activity-filled camp experience. Over
the two-day programme, learners presented their skills, showcased their gardens, and participated in enriching activities like herb workshops, drumming circles, and tree planting.

The rigorous selection process included the submission of a video documentary and a Portfolio of Evidence, culminating in an in-person presentation the day before the awards ceremony.

Above: awards ceremony moments

Announcing the Champions of Permaculture

After meticulous evaluation, the EduPlant Programme is pleased to announce the fifteen winners of this two-year cycle.

Robyn Hills, Head of Programmes at Food & Trees for Africa, commented, “These schools have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the principles of permaculture and sustainability. Their permaculture food gardens serve as living classrooms, nurturing not only plants but also the minds and hearts of the learners involved.”