Looking back on Wetlands Week with Ocean Campus

In celebration of World Wetlands Day, Ocean Campus hosted a vibrant and educational Wetlands Week from 3 to 6 February at the Green Point Urban Park wetlands. The week brought together learners from schools in Nyanga for an immersive learning experience focused on one of nature’s most important, yet often overlooked, ecosystems: Wetlands.

Ocean Campus welcomed learners from Kuyakhanya Primary School, Sikelela Imizamo Primary School, and Sonwabo Primary School. Each group enjoyed a full day of exploration, discovery, and hands-on environmental learning with our Outreach Teachers, Thabo Sabeko (Mr T) and Anzio Abels.

Each day was carefully structured to ensure learners not only gained knowledge but also developed a meaningful connection with wetlands and the life they support.

Learning about wetlands

Learners explored what wetlands are and why they are essential to both people and the planet. Mr T unpacked how wetlands act as natural water filters, help reduce flooding, support biodiversity, and provide habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species. Learners also discovered different types of wetlands and how urban wetlands, like those at Green Point Urban Park, play a crucial role in city environments.

Exploring Green Point Urban Park

Each day kicked off with a guided walk through the wetlands in Green Point Urban Park. Along the way, learners observed the ecosystem firsthand, identifying plants, insects, birds, and signs of animal life. This outdoor experience encouraged curiosity and gave learners the chance to ask questions while engaging directly with nature.

After the walk, learners headed to the classroom, where key concepts were reinforced through discussion and interactive activities, and the learning became even more hands-on.

Hands-on science and discovery

In the classroom, learners took part in practical activities to explore wetland health. They examined water samples to assess water quality and investigated the small animals living in the water, learning how these organisms can indicate the health of an ecosystem. “The presence of certain invertebrates indicates the health of the wetland," Anzio Abels. The session helped learners step into the role of young scientists, building observation skills and a deeper appreciation for environmental monitoring.

A visit to the Aquarium

To round off each day, learners explored the Two Oceans Aquarium, connecting what they had learned about wetlands to broader aquatic ecosystems. This experience highlighted the link between freshwater wetlands and marine environments, reinforcing the importance of protecting all water systems.

Inspiring future environmental stewards

Wetlands Week was more than a celebration; it was an opportunity to inspire young learners to value and protect natural ecosystems. By combining outdoor exploration, classroom learning, and hands-on activities, Ocean Campus created an engaging and memorable experience that encouraged curiosity, critical thinking, and environmental stewardship.

Ocean Campus remains committed to empowering young people through environmental education and looks forward to continuing initiatives that connect learners with nature in meaningful, impactful ways.