From Classrooms to Conservation: Maritzburg College Emerges Victorious in Forest Rehabilitation Challenge

Pietermaritzburg – Armed with spades, sporting their school colours proudly, and determination evident on their faces, 40 boys from four of KwaZulu-Natal’s top schools converged on Ferncliffe Forest for the second annual Husqvarna Schools Forest Rehabilitation Challenge.

What began in 2024 as a pilot event between Weston Agricultural College and Durban High School has already expanded significantly.

This year, both schools returned, accompanied by Maritzburg College and Westville Boys’ High School, competing in a challenge where teamwork and endurance were just as essential as speed.

In collaboration with the non-profit organisation Ferncliffe Forest Wilding, the challenge assessed each team’s capability to dig 10 planting holes across three stations within the endangered mistbelt forest, all while cooperating and being conscious of the surrounding natural environment.

The Challenge kicked off with an environmental lesson led by Husqvarna veld management expert Divan Vermaak, before the boys set off with spades, gloves, and maps to navigate the course.

The rules mandated that teams stay together, complete each segment fully before progressing, and tread lightly to protect the fragile indigenous plants in their vicinity.

After an afternoon filled with spirited competition, Maritzburg College emerged as the winner, claiming the trophy and earning their school a Husqvarna PW 480 Pressure Washer valued at R11 700.

Weston Agricultural College, last year’s champions, secured second place, followed by Durban High School in third and Westville Boys’ High School in fourth.

Each of the three runner-up schools received vouchers for Husqvarna’s online store, and all participants received certificates acknowledging their contributions.

Timothy Isabirye, Husqvarna South Africa’s marketing manager, stated that the challenge’s success lies in its growth each year.

“Last year was about testing the concept. This year, we doubled the number of participating schools. Next year, we aim to expand even more,” he explained.

“The key takeaway is that each year, the impact increases.

“More schools, more boys, more trees planted, and more young people understanding the importance of giving back to their environment.”

He also expressed his admiration for how each boy wholeheartedly participated—not just for victory, but to contribute to something that leaves a lasting legacy.

For Husqvarna, the Schools Forest Rehabilitation Challenge transcends mere competition.

It embodies the brand’s enduring commitment to sustainability and community involvement.

Scheduled during Arbour Week, the initiative also emphasized the crucial role trees play in safeguarding ecosystems and motivating the next generation of environmental guardians.

“It’s not merely about winning on the day; it’s about instilling a sense of stewardship. Our objective is to educate the boys that by protecting the environment, they are also safeguarding their future,” Isabirye concluded.