Podar Pearl School in Mashaf has achieved a remarkable milestone with the launch of its rooftop vegetable garden, a sustainable and innovative project, a statement said.
Spearheaded by the Horticulture Club under the leadership of the school administration and the guidance of president Nisar, the initiative highlights the school’s commitment to environmental awareness, sustainable agriculture, and community engagement.
Located atop the Podar Pearl School building, the vegetable garden has been cultivated seasonally using recycled water and organic fertilisers, demonstrating a commitment to resource efficiency and eco-friendly practices.
The rooftop space has been transformed into a flourishing hub of greenery, growing a variety of vegetables in a testament to sustainable living. To celebrate the success of the initiative, the school recently hosted a harvest festival, inaugurated by principal Dr Manesh Mangal, president Nisar, and director Dr Steffy.
Dr Mangal said the idea of creating the garden and hosting the harvest festival is to educate people about sustainable agricultural practices, the principles of a circular economy, and the importance of reducing the carbon footprint.
"By utilising resources like recycled water and organic fertilisers, we aim to teach our students and the community how to minimise waste and maximise efficiency.”
Dr Steffy highlighted the educational aspect of the initiative, stating: “The idea of the vegetable garden in Podar Pearl School is to introduce awareness about clean eating habits and healthy nutrition among children at an early age.”
The initiative is also a hands-on educational tool for students, offering them practical exposure to sustainable farming methods and instilling an understanding of environmental stewardship from a young age. Through their involvement, students learn about the interconnectedness of food systems, resource management, and climate impact.
The rooftop vegetable garden serves as a model for how urban spaces can be repurposed to promote sustainability. By using minimal water and avoiding chemical fertilisers, the project aligns with global goals of reducing waste, conserving resources and mitigating environmental degradation.
Nisar said Podar Pearl School intends to expand the initiative, incorporating more community involvement and additional sustainable practices. "We are also planning to introduce workshops for parents and residents in Mashaf, encouraging them to adopt similar green initiatives in their own spaces.”
The success of the rooftop vegetable garden is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the school’s leadership, staff, students, and the local community. It reflects the school’s mission to not only provide quality education but also nurture environmentally conscious global citizens, the statement added.
