Compiled by Tadiwanashe Nyakunu

I still cherish the memories of May 2024 when I had the privilege of being trained as an Environmental Child Rights (ECR) defender by the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association (ZELA). Little did I know that this training would empower me to become a change-maker in my community.

Transforming My School

Upon my return to Transau Secondary School, I joined the ECR club, which was established in February 2023 with just 35 students—20 girls and 15 boys. Today, our club has grown to an impressive 78 members. I was appointed club advisor and utilized my newfound knowledge to lead discussions on critical issues affecting our community, such as the impacts of drug and substance abuse, early child marriage, and school dropouts due to mining activities. These debates ignited meaningful conversations and prompted positive behavioral changes among students, which I believe will yield significant benefits in the long run.

Promoting Environmental Awareness

Our E-club participated in a clean-up campaign organized by ZIDAWU and the Environmental Management Agency (EMA). We hosted a debate that emphasized the importance of such initiatives. Through creative expressions like poems, presentations, and songs, we successfully improved perceptions about the E-club, which previously faced low membership and participation, thus the increase in membership to 78 students. This enhanced environmental cleanliness, and a reduced risk of cholera outbreaks in the Anjin suburb, as students adopted cleanliness practices both at school and at home.

E-club members also led tree planting and raising awareness about environmental issues among peers and in the community. In collaboration with ZIDAWU, we explored the topic of climate change and its significance.

A Surprise Benefit: Easy Topic Selection in My ‘O’ Level Exams

The training I received from ZELA unexpectedly helped me during my English Paper 1 ‘O’ Level exam. When faced with a composition question about a successful club at school, I found it easy to write about our ECR club.

Conclusion

I am proud to say that our ECR club is now recognized for its engaging debates and strong sense of discipline at Transau Secondary School. I am immensely grateful to ZELA for empowering me as an ECR defender and to ZIDAWU for their invaluable guidance. This experience has truly made me one of the luckiest individuals.

Tadiwanashe Nyakunu is a Transau Secondary School Environmental Child Rights (ECR) Club Member