The KenGen Foundation has partnered with the Kenya Institute of Puppetry and Theatre in a unique project aimed at highlighting the importance and value of tree planting for schools participating in Phase V of the Schools Green Initiative Challenge. Using puppetry theatre, the GIC project imparted the necessary knowledge on proper tree management practices to pupils involved in the tree planting competition through a series of plays staged from 11 – 15 March.
The plays were executed by clustering neighbouring schools within the three semi-arid counties of Embu, Kitui and Machakos in order to sensitize the pupils on the structure of the competition, and the overall positive effects of planting trees witshin their institutions. At the end of the plays, there were question and answer session to help gauge the impacts on the audiences.
According to Fidelis Kyalo, a puppeteer from KIPT, the plays have help build up interest in tree planting for the young minds and a commitment from the schools’ “green” teachers on the importance of the project in relation to climate change.
“Our first show was a blast! We had over 120 pupils join us to learn about tree planting and the environment and why we need to manage our natural resources. Surprisingly during subsequent shows, the pupils showcased their knowledge of environmental science stuff too.
The recently launched GIC Phase V registered 100 new schools to the afforestation competition, raising the number of institution participating in the project to 500. So far, the GIC has evolved from 81 schools in the pilot phase to include the element of “green” teachers – schools environment patrons charged with guiding the pupils in the challenge.
Apart from the trees of choice – Senna siamea, Melia volkensii and Terminalia brownii, the GIC also introduced Pawpaw and Yellow passion seedlings in Phase III of the competition.
Through the introduction of the puppet shows in Phase V, the pupils learn more about the importance of environmental issues that impact their lives. By teaching many facets of environmental science through theater the project aims to create more informed, educated, and enthusiastic learners, who will in turn go home and inform their parents and family members. The shows align with the current primary school curriculum.The Schools’ Green Initiative Challenge is a unique project implemented by KenGen Foundation in partnership with Better Globe Forestry and Bamburi Cement Ltd.
The ten-year project is designed as a competition amongst the participating institutions for the highest seedling survival rates through the application of various innovations at the schools’ woodlots.
The project is part of KenGen PLC’s participation in environmental conservation activities and Corporate Social Investments targeting the communities living around the company’s areas of operations, and to ensure the continuous availability of water and steam for sustainable operation of its hydro power plants.
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–Ernest Nyamasyo, Communication Officer