The Department of Basic Education (DBE), through the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP), together with Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE) in collaboration with the Nestlé SA and Consumer Education Project of Milk South Africa (CEP), commemorated the National Arbor Week (NAW) and the World School Milk Day (WSMD) 2026 jointly, through a series of educational and environmental activities. The event was held at Khanyisa Primary School and Nkululeko Higher Primary School in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape Province from 2 to 3 September 2026. The awareness campaign was conducted under the theme: “My Tree, My Oxygen – Plant Yours Today and Strong Bones, Strong Moves: Milk Matters for Sport and Growing Bodies”.
The initiative forms part of the long-standing collaboration between Nestlé South Africa and the DBE through the Nestlé for Healthier Kids (N4HK) programme, which aims to empower learners with knowledge and practical skills to make healthier lifestyle choices whilst encouraging positive action within their communities.
As South Africa observed NAW from 1 to 7 September, learners, educators, government representatives, and community stakeholders participated in tree-planting activities, transplanting fruit and indigenous trees to school grounds. The aim of the initiative was to create greener learning environments whilst cultivating a culture of environmental responsibility among young people.
The celebrations also coincided with WSMD, an annual global initiative that highlights the role of nutritious foods, including dairy, that play an important role in supporting children’s growth, development and learning. Learners participated in a range of nutrition and physical educational games and activities designed to reinforce the importance of healthy eating, active lifestyles, and informed food choices.
“Through the Nestlé for Healthier Kids programme, we are committed to equipping children with practical knowledge that can help them make healthier choices throughout their lives. Initiatives such as tree planting allow us to connect nutrition, health, and environmental sustainability in a meaningful way for learners and their communities,” said Ms Lindiwe Masango, Public Affairs and External Specialist: Nestlé SA.
The tree-planting activities also formed part of Nestlé’s broader commitment to supporting tree planting in cocoa-growing communities. Trees contribute to biodiversity, soil health and climate resilience, and the initiative brings these principles into the school environment by encouraging learners to become active stewards of nature. More than 5 neighbouring schools also benefitted from the awareness campaign as they received fruit and indigenous trees donated by Nestlé.
In delivering the message of support, Mr Jeandre Johnston, Food Scientist and Communication Officer for CEP said: “World School Milk Day is highlighting the beneficial roles that milk plays in a school meal to provide energy. From Dairy Rediscovery of Milk SA, we have a slogan that says Dairy Gives You Go! which means dairy not only gives you calcium together with vitamin D for healthy bones but also that you get from the sun. Milk gives you, energy, protein, it helps you to build your muscles, to stay active so that you can learn, that is why we have organised this day with you”. CEP sponsored the schools with milk products and provided educational material to both schools.
“The DBE values partnerships that contribute to the holistic development of our learners. By combining nutrition education with environmental awareness, we are helping learners understand that their wellbeing is connected to the health of their communities and environment. Teach or ask your parents at home about eating well, so that you have a healthy body and strong bones. You must start eating healthy and being active at an early age so that you continue to live long and prevent illnesses,” said Ms Neo Sediti, NSNP Director.
Learners in both schools actively participated in the fun play and physical activities, gaining first-hand knowledge about environmental conservation, nutrition and sustainable living. Approximately 800 learners, educators, SGB members and various stakeholders were reached. The DBE and Nestlé South Africa remain committed to strengthening initiatives that promote learner health, wellbeing, and environmental responsibility. This partnership continues to demonstrate how collaborative interventions can create meaningful and lasting impact in schools and communities across South Africa.