Board Members for Group of Acorns International Schools have planted 1,000 Ashoka trees at its Lubowa campus as part of its 30th anniversary celebrations, reaffirming its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
The tree-planting exercise forms part of the school's "30 Years, 30 WellBeing Initiatives, One Community" campaign, with environmental wellbeing identified as one of its eight pillars aimed at creating a healthier future for learners and surrounding communities.
Ms Ameena Lalani, the Chief Executive Officer of the schools said the initiative reflects the school's belief that education should go hand in hand with protecting the environment.
"We have always believed that while we contribute to the community through education, we must also be environmentally responsible," she said.
Lalani explained that the exercise is part of a long-term environmental programme rather than a one-off event.
"We have done a lot within the wider community, and this is a continuous commitment. It is not a one-time affair. We have done it in the past and would like to continue doing it in the future, not only for our schools but for the wider community as well," she said.
She added that the Ashoka trees planted around the Lubowa campus will stand as a lasting symbol of the school's commitment to environmental stewardship.
Group of Acorns International Schools Board Chair Mr Adnan Jasani said environmental conservation is one of the institution's core values and is embraced by everyone within the school community.
"One of Acorns' seven core values is environmentalism. Our logo reflects that commitment, and everyone—from the board chair and CEO to heads of school, teachers and learners—believes we are environmentalists in our own capacity," he said.
Jasani noted that environmental responsibility extends beyond planting trees.
"If we say we are environmentalists, then we must practise environmental sustainability in every aspect of our lives. This initiative offers a glimpse of how we live that value every day," he said.
He added that teaching children about conservation from an early age prepares them to become responsible custodians of the environment.
"Global warming is a real challenge and environmental sustainability is a global priority. Children need to understand this from an early age. Planting a tree may seem like a small act, but it teaches them the importance of protecting natural resources and creating a sustainable future for themselves and generations to come," Jasani said.
The initiative was welcomed by members of the surrounding community.
Mr Alain Amini, a community leader in Spring Residence, Lubowa Estate where Acorns Lubowa Campus is located, commended the school for setting an example that other residents can emulate.
"The 1,000 trees will help protect us from dust, improve the environment and inspire us as residents to do even better," he said.
Amini challenged residents to launch their own conservation drive.
"I think we should discuss this as a community and see if we can compete in tree planting. If Acorns has planted 1,000 trees, why can't we, as residents, plant 3,000? That would be a healthy competition that benefits everyone," he said.
He observed that with rapid construction taking place across the estate, more trees are needed to improve air quality and maintain a healthy environment.
"Trees not only beautify our surroundings but also improve the quality of the air we breathe. Acorns International School has set a good example, and I encourage all of us to learn from it," he added.
Learners who participated in the exercise also described it as a valuable hands-on learning experience.
Gabriela Athena Kirabo, a Year 10 student at Acorns International School, Kisaasi Campus, said the activity allowed students to put classroom lessons into practice.
"The exercise was really important and impactful, and we had so much fun taking part in it. It sent a strong message that protecting the environment and keeping it sustainable is everyone's responsibility," she said.
Kirabo explained that the exercise complemented lessons they had covered in Geography.
"In class, we discussed different ways of managing the environment sustainably, both economically and environmentally. Tree planting was one of the solutions we came up with, so it was exciting to put our learning into practice," she said.
She encouraged everyone to reduce pollution by using plastics responsibly and disposing of waste properly.
"Small actions can make a big difference. I believe these trees will help provide cleaner air and contribute to addressing climate change in the years ahead," she said.
The tree-planting exercise is one of several activities Acorns is undertaking to celebrate three decades of providing quality education while promoting environmental stewardship, community engagement and holistic wellbeing.