SCHOOLS play a key role in creating awareness and fostering partnerships that will bring about a cleaner and healthier environment, says interim Education Minister, Filipe Bole.
The interim minister in a statement said it was important for children to be aware of waste management as it was a national issue.
"When students are educated on environmental issues, waste management will become effective, as students will actively participate with waste minimisation, recycling and improving final disposal," he said.
He said students' active participation would effectively implement strategies that would eventually benefit the country as a whole.
"Managing the environment responsibly and with care is a big challenge," Mr Bole said.
"Learning of the negative impact on nature, national development, food woes, effect of pollution, the food chain will alert them to the urgent need to act now."
Mr Bole said the environmental programs that were incorporated into the curriculum were intended to create awareness.
"These activities will build on existing environmental awareness and promote the preservation and protection of the environment," he said.
"It would strengthen, encourage and improve students' knowledge and understanding of the environmental factors that contribute to the livelihood of our planet."
Narere Primary School headteacher Ravindra Anand said proper disposal of rubbish was what his school was focusing on because a lot of students were not aware of this.
"Environmental care is an issue of great concern and schools are the main agents to teach our children the importance to save and look after our environment," he said.
"Good behavioural management system is another important area when it comes to environment."
Gospel High School principal Bindula Naidu said teachers and schools should try and make environment education a part of a student's life.
She said this would ensure the environment was well kept.
