On December 19, 2024, Makati Science High School celebrated a remarkable milestone with the much-anticipated tree-planting activity, “Grow with Us: Plant the Seed of Success.” Held from 9:00 AM to 12:00 noon, the event combined environmental stewardship, economic education, and health advocacy into a single, impactful initiative.
Spearheaded by the Makati Science High School Interact Club in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Makati-Dasmariñas, the activity was attended by 42 participants, including students, Rotaractors, and two experienced farmers, all of whom contributed to its success.
Key Achievements:
• Expanding Green Spaces: Held in the school’s spacious garden yards, which already boast flourishing greenery, the activity added 50 fruit-bearing trees and 50 ornamental plants to the landscape. These additions will not only beautify the school but also provide long-term environmental and nutritional benefits.
• Take-Home Trees: Participants were given seedlings to plant in their own backyards, extending the positive impact of the project into their homes and communities.
• Practical Farming Skills: Two farmers conducted live demonstrations on pruning techniques, teaching participants how to care for trees to maximize their yield and productivity.
Educational Insights:
The seminar featured an inspiring talk by Mr. Marvin Da Silva, Agripreneur Business Coach, who highlighted how planting trees can serve as both an environmental and economic opportunity. This was further enriched by insights from Dr. Willie T. Ong, who outlined the health benefits of bananas, emphasizing their role in combating heartburn, stress, and fatigue while preventing conditions like stroke, asthma, and anemia.
The participants learned that farming not only provides food but also offers a viable business opportunity. The steps to successful farming—securing land, planting, nurturing, and harvesting—were presented as a roadmap for both personal and professional growth. As shared during the session, “Patience bears fruits,” reminding students of the importance of perseverance in all their endeavors.
Empowering the Youth:
This tree-planting activity served as a hands-on platform for students to gain valuable lessons in sustainability, responsibility, and economic empowerment. The addition of live demonstrations and expert talks enriched their understanding of how agriculture can contribute to both personal health and community development.
A Call to Action:
A recurring message throughout the event was the importance of doing small things to protect our planet. From planting trees to growing vegetables, participants were encouraged to play their part in preserving Mother Earth while embracing healthier lifestyles.
As emphasized during the seminar:
• Planting trees helps the environment by improving air quality and promoting biodiversity.
• Banana farming and vegetable gardening can serve as practical and sustainable business ventures.
• Simple actions, like planting in your backyard, can contribute to a larger global effort to combat climate change and promote food security.
A Shared Success:
The success of this event reflects the collective dedication of students, teachers, Rotaractors, farmers, and community members. Together, they made strides toward creating a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future for Makati Science High School and beyond.
As these newly planted trees grow, they will stand as living symbols of hope, collaboration, and resilience. This project is a testament to what can be achieved when education, environmental care, and economic opportunities come together for the greater good.
By: Nancy Sandevi
Comments