Pelican Park High goes green with hydroponics

Pelican Park High goes green with hydroponics

10 July 2026

Pelican Park High School is set to become a hub of agricultural innovation with the installation of a state-of-the-art, solar-powered hydroponic agriculture hub through a new partnership with Islamic Relief South Africa (IRSA).

Developed in collaboration with the University of the Western Cape, the climate-smart hydroponic system uses up to 90% less water than conventional farming methods while producing crops four to ten times faster. The project will provide learners with hands-on experience in modern farming technologies while empowering women from the local community through practical agricultural training and skills development.

The school already offers Agricultural Management Practices and Agricultural Technology as subjects making it an ideal site for the initiative. At the Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremony on 8 July 2026, learners enrolled in these subjects expressed excitement about gaining practical experience in cutting-edge agricultural practices.

The first of 12 solar-powered hydroponic units has already been installed with a further 11 set to line the walls of the school’s greenhouse, complementing its existing soil-based farming operation. Once completed, the system is expected to increase production significantly, with an estimated 600 additional crops being grown within the greenhouse.

Welcoming the initiative, Principal Shariefa Clark said the project demonstrates how innovation and education can work together to create lasting opportunities for learners and the wider community. “At Pelican Park High, we believe that education extends far beyond the classroom. Our responsibility is not only to prepare learners to pass examinations but to prepare them to succeed in life. This partnership allows us to do exactly that.”

She added that for the school’s Mandela Day outreach programme, they will use the fresh greens harvested from the tunnels to prepare soup for community members in need.

Islamic Relief South Africa CEO, Yusuf Mohamed, said the initiative reflects the organisation’s commitment to complementing humanitarian assistance with long-term, sustainable development that creates pathways out of poverty.