Conversations around the environment and sustainable development/living were central at a conference organised by UKZN’s School of Education and featuring EPIZ Berlin.
EPIZ Berlin is a non-profit association based in Germany with over 35 years of education experience, focusing on globalisation, social justice, human rights, and sustainability. The organisation addresses inhumane attitudes and advocates for neutrality in political education with their goal being to integrate global learning into the education system, addressing the increasing prevalence of inhumane attitudes.
Professor Angela James of the School of Education emphasised the necessity to be aware of the different environmental challenges faced daily as she believes that sharing ideas, suggestions, challenges and actions regarding environmental issues leads to developing constructive actions.
The programme featured performances by School of Education students and presentations from UKZN lecturers and students, and a group of learners from Buhlebemfundo High School as well as discussions that delved into socioeconomic concerns regarding environmental education, sustainable growth, climate change and mental health issues, among others.
As part of their entertainment plan, Mr Thobani Khulu, a second-year School of Education student, demonstrated his leadership abilities by getting his team to create a song related to environmental education.
Mr Fundile Zungu of the UKZN choir said the event taught him about the importance of living a sustainable lifestyle and preserving the environment. Fundile highlighted the necessity to use resources efficiently so future generations could also enjoy them. ‘This experience has made it easier for me to see how sustainable practices may change society,’ he said.
Mr Dimitrios Kalpakidis of EPIZ Berlin said he was impressed by the exposure to an environment that he was not familiar with, adding: ‘The purpose of the event was to educate, assess teacher-student interactions, and unearth fresh facets about South Africa’s sustainability. The experience has taught me the importance of entering the country with an open mind in terms of expectations.’
