As the urgency for environmental sustainability grows, the Salesian Hydroponics Eco-Ubuntu Project emerges as a beacon of hope, teaching young people the importance of caring for our planet. This pioneering initiative blends community empowerment with ecological stewardship, creating pathways for a greener future through renewable energy, water access, waste management, and sustainable cultivation practices.
Launched in January 2024 by the Salesian AFM Provincial Office in Johannesburg, the Eco-Ubuntu project represents a deep commitment to holistic development. Its mission is to instill a “green mindset” within communities, offering accessible and practical ways to embrace sustainable practices. The project’s focus ranges from hydroponic farming systems to solar installation training, all aimed at fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.
At the Salesian Institute Youth Projects (SIYP) in Green Point, Cape Town, young people learn to thrive in the growing green economy through hands-on hydroponics and solar training programs. These initiatives empower students with skills that are critical for the future, equipping them to be leaders in sustainable agriculture and energy solutions.
A key highlight of the Eco-Ubuntu project is the integration of hydroponics into education and employment pathways for disadvantaged youth through the NEETs Youth Employability Programme (Not in Education, Employment, or Training). This programme provides young people with opportunities to implement hydroponic systems in their communities, addressing unemployment while fostering a sense of responsibility and pride in preserving the environment. Additionally, SIYP introduced a Solar Installation Skills Programme earlier in 2024, further deepening their commitment to sustainable development. The current Solar Installation Programme continues to gain momentum, with exciting new developments set for implementation in 2025.
The Eco Ubuntu project also extends its impact to students at the Learn to Live School of Skills, offering hands-on experience in hydroponic farming. Here, learners gain practical skills while cultivating a deeper appreciation for sustainable agriculture and the importance of preserving natural resources.
“As we continue to champion the cause of environmental sustainability through the Don Bosco Green Alliance, the impact of the Eco-Ubuntu project goes beyond immediate communities. It serves as a model for grassroots initiatives that harness the power of education, innovation, and collaboration to create a greener, more inclusive world,” says Gabriel Hamuy, NEETs Youth Employability Programme Manager.
The Salesian Hydroponics Eco-Ubuntu Project is more than just an initiative; it is a movement towards cultivating hope, resilience, and unity in the face of environmental challenges. By nurturing both the land and the young people who care for it, the project lays the foundation for a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.
For more information about the skills development programmes at SIYP and how the greater public and corporates can get involved, please go to our website: www.salesianyouth.org
