The Public School System celebrated a significant boost to its existing Learning Garden initiative through its partnership with UNICEF.
As part of a broader Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) project titled “Environment Resilient and Gender Responsive WASH Action for Vulnerable School Children and Adolescents in RMI,” UNICEF’s support will directly enhance educational opportunities and promote healthy food knowledge within schools, said PSS in a press release.
The expanded WASH project, made possible by UNICEF funding, addresses critical adaptation barriers outlined in the National Adaptation Plan, including the need for improved sanitation, reliable water supply, and climate change awareness. Importantly, one of the project’s key focus areas is on Promoting WASH and Healthy Food Knowledge, aiming to improve understanding and practices at the household, community, and school levels.
A central component of this focus is the strengthening of existing Learning Garden initiative in public schools.
UNICEF’s support will provide resources and expertise to further develop these gardens as valuable educational tools, connecting students to the importance of healthy food and sustainable practices.
Schools benefiting from this enhanced focus on Learning Gardens including Marshall Islands High School, Rita Elementary School, Assumption School, Delap Elementary School and Laura High School.
A handover ceremony was held April 9 at the MIHS Teachers’ Lounge, where representatives from all the key participating schools gathered to acknowledge UNICEF’s generous support.
Sally Ann deBrum, the Surge Support Consultant for PSS, highlighted Commissioner Dr. Natalie Nimmer’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of children, especially their access to nutritious food and hands-on learning. She then acknowledged the commencement of UNICEF’s valuable support and encouraged schools to continue nurturing their gardens.