The Department of Community Extension has stepped in to address a growing hunger crisis affecting schools in Umlazi Township, launching a project to support vulnerable learners through sustainable food production.
The initiative, which focuses on providing fresh produce to local schools, is part of the department’s broader effort to ease food insecurity in the community. According to Balu Nxasane, the project has been officially registered under Mangosuthu University Community Engagement and Development Division (CEAD), ensuring institutional backing and coordination.
Nxasane explained that the department is working closely with several primary schools across Umlazi to establish and maintain food gardens. These gardens are designed to supply fresh, organic vegetables for use in school feeding schemes, helping improve the nutritional value of meals provided to learners.
“The main aim of this project is to augment feeding schemes, ensuring that schools get fresh organic vegetables when preparing food for learners, while also stimulating a passion for agriculture among young people,” Nxasane said.
The initiative highlights the role of higher education institutions in community upliftment, combining academic learning with real-world impact. As food insecurity continues to challenge many communities, projects like this offer a model for collaboration and resilience at the grassroots level.