By Zuned Zibran Ali, student at Kamil Muslim College in Fiji, 2023 Global High Schools winner

The Prize-winning project at Kamil Muslim College marks a major step forward in our sustainability journey. It has begun transforming not only our school but also the lives and livelihoods of the people of Valele, Ba.

Our fully equipped indoor and outdoor hydroponics systems have made our college a self-sustaining institution in Fiji.

Hydroponics is a sustainable agriculture method that uses significantly less water and land compared to traditional farming. The hydroponics systems serve as a practical educational tool, providing students with hands-on experience in innovative agricultural techniques. This enhances their understanding of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects and inspires them to pursue careers in these fields.

By providing a minimum of 50 dozen fresh vegetables yearly to our school canteen, our hydroponics system ensures healthier meals for our students and serves as a beacon of innovation and sustainable practices for our community.

The project promotes sustainable agriculture practices and contributes to food security, while creating opportunities for community members to learn about hydroponics and potentially adopt this method in their own gardens. This expands the impact of our initiative beyond the school.

By working together and thinking creatively, we can develop solutions that protect our planet and improve the quality of life for all. Let's commit to a sustainable future, where each action we take today contributes to a greener, healthier, and more resilient world for generations to come.