Midlands Meander Education Project

School days in many KwaZulu Natal Midlands schools are far from ordinary, particularly if ‘The Bugs’ are expected that day.

Most mornings the Midlands Meander Association Education Project facilitators dress up in colourful ‘Bug’ costumes and set off along the country roads to visit little farm schools, where they pop bright, magic hats on to the heads of giggling learners. To begin the day, SuperBug usually spends some time in quiet contemplation after which the class might discuss Values - such as peace and respect - and how important they are in our lives – in our interactions with other people, animals and the environment. After the mid-morning meal, often prepared in the solar cooker to demonstrate alternative energy sources, outdoor activities begin. Some learners head off with Gugu the Grasshopper to explore a nearby wetland and learn about the many fascinating plants and animals that make up this important habitat. Masechaba the Mayfly gets everyone tangled playing the Food Web game to illustrate how each creature on Earth depends on others for its survival. DoodleBug might encourage budding artists to draw giant trees or paint mandalas, while Sizakele the Spider gets stuck into the food and medicine garden. This magical day happens once a month for 14 schools registered in the MMAEP Eco-Schools support programme. Who ever said school was boring?

Little Samkelo Mbili (Grade 6) from Corrie Lynn Primary, who is astonished that the Bugs never seem to get tired, says “We are always excited when we see the Bugs arriving. We know they are bringing nice information and coming to play with us”.

Would you like to help the Bugs spread their Magic? Visit The B.U.G Shop on our website and indulge in a little shopping with a conscience.

Since 2003 the Midlands Meander Association Education Project has supported over 20 disadvantaged rural schools in a number of ways. Our main focus is on educator support through creative co-teaching in a wide range of areas with a special focus on environmental education. MMAEP fieldworkers bring enthusiasm and a new dimension to learning which we believe has a positive impact on the development of the 2400 learners attending schools which currently participate in the programme. For more information on our programmes, visit our Environment, Art and Craft, Life Skills, Tourism, Food Gardens, and Libraries pages, or to read about our latest antics, visit our News page.

Midlands Bugs Gallery