We arrived at our destination, Potberg, which is part of the Greater De Hoop Nature Reserve Complex in the Overberg region. The camp far exceeded the kids’ expectations, looking truly amazing. We were warmly greeted by the friendly staff of CapeNature.
The Dyer Island Conservation Trust has long been involved with local school groups. In 2016, the Dyer Island Conservation Trust Environmental Education Programme, known as DEEP Blue Ambassadors, was launched with just 13 learners. Since then, it has grown to over 100 learners who have participated in the program. The initial group has now completed matric, and some are currently enrolled in university. DEEP envisions that environmental education should reach all children, ensuring that the ethos of conservation and respect for nature becomes second nature to them. This program runs for three consecutive years to monitor and evaluate the impact and growth of each individual learner. The aim is to expose these young learners to the fields of science and conservation, helping them realize that with continued education, they can achieve anything they set their minds to.
The first-ever collaborative DEEP camp took place over the weekend of March 22nd to 24th, with our group of 47 learners from Masakhane Primary School and Gansbaai Academia being hosted at Potberg Eco-Venue by CapeNature and the Western Cape Education Department’s Safe Schools. The learners enjoyed fun-filled educational games to celebrate World Water Day on March 22nd, a visit to the Cape Vulture colony, and marine awareness activities at Koppie Alleen Beach to conclude the camp.
Phunyuzwa Xhegwana, a Stakeholder Engagement Officer at CapeNature, said, “Water conservation awareness was successfully raised, young lives were impacted, and partnerships were strengthened at this year’s holiday program camp.”
Eyethu Makeke, a teacher at Gansbaai Academia, commented, “The camp we attended over the weekend was truly exceptional, offering enriched experiences and fostering strong bonds among all participants. Its well-planned activities and supportive coordinators created a memorable and enjoyable environment for everyone involved. I would like to extend my thanks to Pinkey Ngewu and her team.”
Leon Myburgh of the Overberg District School Safety & Youth Development stated, “Youth Development has become a core area of the partnership formed between DICT, CapeNature, and the Overberg Education District (Sub-component Safe Schools) to reach learners through various programs. The programs conducted over the past weekend had a significant impact in numerous ways, adding to the creation of future ambassadors who will take leadership roles in projects