Students Turn School Gardens into Climate Solutions

Students from Bright Star Secondary with their teacher in the kitchen garden, learning how to grow food and protect the environment.
Students from Bright Star Secondary with their teacher in the kitchen garden, learning how to grow food and protect the environment. Photo/Elisha Nyakweba

While many students are enjoying their holiday break, students at Bright Star Secondary School—one of FCA’s supported schools—are spending their time nurturing both crops and climate solutions. Through the school’s Agriculture Club, these young change-makers are changing their kitchen garden into a living classroom, under the close guidance of their Head Teacher, Mr. Elisha Nyakweba.

Bright Star Secondary students preparing natural neem-based pesticides as part of their climate-smart farming lessons. Photo: Elisha Nyakweba

Kenya has been experiencing a prolonged drought, fewer trees, and reduced fresh air circulation—clear signs of the worsening effects of climate change. In response, students at Bright Star are gaining hands-on experience in climate-smart farming. With guidance from their teachers, they are preparing natural neem-based pesticides, tending to healthy crops, conserving water and planting trees

These activities are equipping students with practical skills that go beyond the classroom—skills that help protect the environment, provide fresh food for their families, and prepare them to tackle real-world challenges. The kitchen garden is more than just a school project; it’s a space where learners grow in knowledge, responsibility, and their commitment to a greener future.

With their growing skills and strong commitment, these students have the potential to lead Kenya toward a more sustainable and resilient agricultural future. Their dedication during the school holiday is a powerful reminder of what young people can achieve when they are empowered and guided with purpose.

Text: Daisy Obare