The Aga Khan Schools in Kenya

Celebrating World Environment Day Virtually

Typically this day would see children engaged in different activities at the school like clean-ups, tree-planting drives, recycling and poetry recitation. This year is different, but teachers were clear, the pandemic was not going to put a stop involving children in this important day.

Mrs. Gokrani, the Head Teacher said, “When I look out of my house through the window, I see beautiful butterflies and small colourful birds flying around freely. This makes me appreciate nature even more. It gives me a sense of tranquility. Our theme, ‘Linking People to Mother Nature’, encourages all of us to get out into the great outdoors and appreciate the beauty and importance of our surroundings, recognize how intimately we depend on nature, and learn how we can preserve our environment.”

At AKNSM teaching children is all about using the outdoor and indoor environment, guided by an ethos that promotes confidence, self-esteem and independence through small achievable tasks.

Mrs. Gokrani explained, “After my teachers brainstormed virtually with the children all the ways in which we can preserve our environment, the children came up with activities they could do at home. It was amazing to see videos and photos of them watering plants, making toys using recycled material, picking litter and helping clean the house.”

Mrs. Gokrani is adamant, “It's never too soon to start teaching your kids about the importance of protecting the environment and finding ways to help.”