The Department of Nature Conservation at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) made a meaningful contribution to this year’s Arbor Day celebration at Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve. Represented by Dr Cheryl Ogilvie, the University played a key role in highlighting how academic institutions can be a driving force in promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices at community level.
Arbor Day, traditionally known for tree planting, is much more than just a celebration of trees—it is a day dedicated to environmental action and education celebrated every year during Heritage Month. Nature Reserves protect landscapes, ecosystems and species with cultural or spiritual value to indigenous groups, reflecting traditions and historical practices. Additionally, a country's flora and fauna are integral to its natural heritage, with nature reserves playing a vital role in safeguarding biodiversity. As Tumi Shoba, Manager of Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve, aptly stated: “There is one Earth and we all share it. Now is the time to take ownership and act.”
This annual event calls on people of all ages to not only plant trees but to recognise the critical role they play in fighting climate change, improving air quality and supporting biodiversity.
TUT, through the guidance of Dr Cheryl Ogilvie and supported by Ms Naquita Faria, Christa and Christine Wagner, Bongani Mayaba and Dr Nomusa Masubelele, added a powerful educational component to the day’s activities. The University’s presence underscored the importance of linking academic knowledge with practical, community-based initiatives. Arbor Day serves as a prime example of how institutions like TUT can extend their influence beyond the classroom, translating theory into action and bringing the community together around shared environmental goals. The event at Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve wasn’t just about tree planting—it was an immersive educational experience that engaged attendees in understanding the broader impact of environmental stewardship.
Dr Ogilvie’s role emphasised the significance of trees in urban greening efforts and conservation, helping participants grasp how crucial these natural assets are to our ecosystems. Her involvement illustrated how universities like TUT play a pivotal role in advancing environmental education by equipping communities with the knowledge and tools they need to take effective action.
Dr Nomusa Masubelele, representing The Adelaide Tambo School of Nursing Science
In particular, the TUT team highlighted the multiple benefits trees provide: clean air, shade, carbon dioxide absorption and wildlife habitats. Faith Mabunda from Rand Water’s Water Wise program reinforced this by saying: “No water, no trees—every drop counts and every tree matters.” This collaboration between university and community organisations created a comprehensive educational framework that encouraged participants to think about long-term sustainability.
Dr Ogilvie and other environmental experts demonstrated that science doesn’t just happen in labs—it is present in every aspect of our environment, from the trees we plant to the water we conserve. This blend of education and action is central to fostering a deeper connection between people and the planet.
TUT’s participation in Arbor Day serves as a model for how universities can effectively partner with local communities to drive environmental change. By working alongside organisations like Johannesburg City Parks and Zoos (JCPZ) and the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve Association (KNRA), TUT demonstrated the power of collaboration in raising environmental awareness and educating the public. The event provided a platform for sharing knowledge and inspiring individuals to take responsibility for their local environment.
Commenting on the event, Faculty of Science Executive Dean, Prof Ntebogeng Mokgalaka-Fleischmann, explained that a nature reserve is deeply intertwined with a country's heritage. “By promoting ecotourism and showcasing environmental conservation, reserves also foster national pride and contribute to a country's global reputation. Thus, they protect both the tangible and intangible elements of a nation's heritage.”
Through its involvement, TUT showed that universities can be leaders in this movement by not only educating their students but by extending their reach into the broader community. As the KNRA and JCPZ urged: “We only have one Earth—let’s make the choice to protect it.”
An immersive educational experience engaging young people in understanding the broader impact of environmental stewardship.
Dr Cheryl Ogilvie (middle) & Mr Bongani Mayaba (left) from The Department of Nature Conservation with representatives of the e-Pap Foundation who has been working for 10+ years together with Dr Ogilvie with the Ndumo community A nature reserve is deeply intertwined with a country's heritage, as it represents the natural, cultural, and historical aspects that shape national identity. These reserves protect landscapes, ecosystems, and species with cultural or spiritual value to indigenous groups, reflecting traditions and historical practices. Additionally, a country's flora and fauna are integral to its natural heritage, with nature reserves playing a vital role in safeguarding biodiversity. By promoting ecotourism and showcasing environmental conservation, reserves also foster national pride and contribute to a country's global reputation. Thus, they protect both the tangible and intangible elements of a nation's heritage.