Caltex Malaysia has collaborated with MyKasih Foundation for the Caltex Fuel Your School social investment programme in Johor, where the programme reached 15 schools Muar and Segamat, and it aims to expand to the east coast region.
The Fuel Your School programme aims to tackle challenges faced by communities, by restarting students’ interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects, and the programme also promotes food security and sustainable agriculture in schools while at the same time encouraging the development of critical learning skills, said Caltex.
Schools in the Muar and Segamat districts included SK Paya Jakas and SK Temiang, which first piloted the project, while SK Parit Pechah, SJK (C) Yu Eng, SK Kuala Paya, SJK (T) Ladang Voules, SK Sawah Baru, along with eight other schools received the same support and resources through the programme.
Adopted by local Caltex service stations, these schools were each awarded a smart aquaponics system for their students to learn the basics of agricultural technologies, while helping to contribute to the nation’s food security. The setups were for the farming of vegetables and fish through a symbiotic farming system with delivery, installation and training provided.
Resulting from this initiative is a harvest of 142 kg of vegetables from 12 out of the 15 participating schools in the first half of this year, aiding the schools’ food programmes and contributing to 2,411 indirect beneficiaries, said Caltex Malaysia.
Beneficiaries of the programme included board members of the schools, teachers, students, canteen operators, school employees, as well as school members who were offered the produce at an affordable price, said the company.
“The Caltex Fuel Your School programme has seen many successful outcomes that benefit schools and inspire students for a brighter future. We have seen how the smart aquaponics systems have created a sustainable cycle to serve the community, especially those in the B40 category,’ said Caltex Malaysia chairman Dean Gilbert.
“We have seen how the exposure to experience theory and practical aspects about aquaponics have piqued their interest to cultivate agriculture without pesticides. This has since fostered healthier eating habits among the students, which has extended to their own families and within the school community at large,” said SK Seri Menanti principal Puan Tuminah binti Disun.
Phase 2 of the Caltex Fuel Your School programme aims to continue with schools along the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, said Caltex Malaysia.
Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro.
