Pupils from four Klang Valley schools take on environmental education programme

FOREST Interactive Foundation and Axiata Foundation unveiled a Green Bean programme to deliver a comprehensive environmental education experience to inspire the next generation of eco-warriors.

Sponsored by Axiata Foundation, this pioneering initiative engaged pupils in four primary schools from Kuala Lumpur and Selangor – SK Datok Keramat 2, SK Cheras Jaya, SK Kantan Permai and SK Taman Segar.

Thirty pupils aged between 10 and 12 from each school experienced a two-day environmental education programme, a pivotal step in fostering deep-rooted commitment to environmental conservation among the next generation.

Forest Interactive Foundation founder and chief executive officer Johary Mustapha lauded environmental education from an early age.

He said this was important in order for future leaders to grasp what’s needed from the beginning of their school life and develop this into their mature adult life.

“These initiatives are very important for children so that they can see what sort of changes they can have in terms of preserving the environment for a better tomorrow.”

The first day of the programme was structured around four key modules – Environmental Science 101, which featured building their own solar-powered car; Environmental Issues 101, on climate issues and challenges; Sustainability 101, introducing “Grow Your Own Food” and circular economy as well as Green Bean Innovation Challenge; and Environmental Advocacy, involving a pledge to safeguard the environment.

As an extension of the Environmental Advocacy module, a visit to Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS) provided the children an opportunity to immerse themselves in the wonders of nature.

There, they engaged with various animals and visited vegetable and herb gardens and stingless bee and animal farms.

Then, in groups of five, the pupils pitched creative ideas on sustainable living to a panel made up of Forest Interactive Foundation and Axiata Foundation representatives, as well as the teacher in charge of the respective schools.

Axiata Foundation chief executive officer Mohamad Kamal Nawawi said, “Implementing a programme like Green Bean among schoolchildren is essential because it helps develop their understanding of the environment and ecological balance.

“By introducing them to the impact of human activities on the environment, we can create awareness and a sense of urgency regarding environmental degradation.

“By nurturing their passion for the environment and inspiring them to take action, we can build a better future for our planet.”

Johary added, “We hope to spur more partnerships in the years to come, following the success of this programme.

“Collectively, we can take urgent action to build knowledge and capacity to meet climate change.”

The Green Bean programme meets United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 – Quality Education, 13 – Climate Action, and 17 – Partnership for the Goals.

Founded in 2021 as an extension of Forest Interactive’s sustainability initiatives, Forest Interactive Foundation is a tech-powered non-profit with a long-term mission to nurture and develop talents for the digital economy, empower our society and preserve the environment through sustainable initiatives and programmes.

Axiata Foundation focuses on developing and nurturing young generations with critical skills to develop them into future digital leaders.