Across Kamuli District, school compounds are transforming into vibrant green spaces of learning, thanks to the growing impact of school permaculture clubs. What began as small demonstration plots has now blossomed into thriving gardens that feed, educate, and inspire entire school communities.
Under the guidance of the Permaculture Schools Outreach (PSO) program, teachers and students are working together to apply practical skills in organic gardening, composting, water harvesting, and crop diversity. These activities are not only enriching the school environment but also promoting sustainability and self-sufficiency among learners.
At schools such as Busoga High School, Kamuli Boys Boarding Primary School, and Kiswa Primary School, permaculture clubs have turned once-bare patches of land into productive gardens filled with vegetables, herbs, and fruit trees. The students take pride in planting, watering, and harvesting their crops, learning how to care for the soil and understand the interconnectedness of natural systems.
Teacher Lawrence Mutabuza, the PSO Coordinator, praised the commitment of students and teachers, noting that “the school gardens are living classrooms where learners gain practical skills in food production and environmental care. These experiences build confidence and responsibility while contributing to better nutrition at school.”
The benefits go far beyond the school gate. Many learners are now applying what they learn at home, helping their families start small kitchen gardens and adopt sustainable practices. In this way, permaculture education is creating a ripple effect, strengthening household food security and improving community livelihoods.
Parents and local leaders have also shown growing support, recognizing the value of teaching children to work with nature rather than against it. With each new planting season, more schools in Kamuli and neighboring Buyende are expressing interest in joining the initiative.
As Dr. Lorna Brown of Dolen Ffermio noted, “These flourishing gardens are a testament to the creativity and dedication of Ugandan teachers and students. They reflect how permaculture can transform education — from theory to practice — and build a sustainable future for all.”
With continued collaboration between PSO, Dolen Ffermio, and local education authorities, Kamuli’s school gardens are proving that small seeds of knowledge can grow into big changes — nurturing not just plants, but hope, resilience, and a greener tomorrow.
