In good governance news, the Philippines converts school yards to thriving vegetable gardens. The Education Department inaugurated the program in 2010, with the goal of improving the eating habits and health of students. In a primary school in Manila, the cultivation of many nutritious greens is a joint endeavor of teachers, students, and parents. The abundant produce, which is grown in all available space, is given to disadvantaged children or their families. Even schools without access to soil are taking part by transforming discarded plastic bottles into water receptacles used in hydroponic growing. In a pilot feeding program at Parañaque Central Elementary School in Manila, 100 of the most undernourished children were provided with food coming from the gardens. A nutritionist at the school stated, “Our charts now show they are more healthy, attentive and are performing better in school.”

A big green salute, the Philippines, Paranaque Central Elementary School, and other schools involved in this fantastic project. May flourishing vegetable gardens help lead the beautiful children of your nation into vibrant well-being, and our planet into lasting sustainability.