QUEEN’S College has unveiled its Hydroponic Kitchen Garden System, a ground-breaking project promoting environmental sustainability and agricultural education in Guyana. Officially launched on Wednesday, the initiative stems from the ExxonMobil Guyana-sponsored SHOUT National Secondary School Environmental Speech Competition, organised by Recover Guyana in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.

The Hydroponic Kitchen Garden System introduces innovative farming techniques that reduce the environmental footprint of traditional agriculture while supplying fresh, nutrient-rich produce to enhance school meals. This initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, demonstrating the school’s commitment to fostering sustainability through education.

Beyond providing fresh produce, the garden serves as a practical learning tool for Agriculture Science students, equipping them with skills to adopt sustainable practices and inspiring awareness of environmental protection.

ExxonMobil Guyana’s Public and Government Affairs Manager, Matthew Scharf, expressed pride in supporting the initiative. “Hydroponic gardens are an exciting way to teach students more about sustainability and inspire them to take care of the environment,” he said. “We are happy to support this creative, student-led project, which reflects our commitment to empowering young people and advancing sustainability.”

Dr. Dave Lalltoo, President of Recover Guyana, echoed similar sentiments, calling the garden a beacon for youth-driven solutions. “This project is more than a garden; it is a testament to how education and sustainability can be harmonised to create meaningful change,” Dr. Lalltoo said.

The project is led by Gabriella Arjun, the 2024 Guyana Youth Environmental Speaker, who highlighted the garden’s multifaceted impact. “This initiative is a dream realised for me as an advocate for sustainability and youth leadership,” Arjun shared. “The Hydroponic Kitchen Garden System provides fresh produce, serves as an educational tool, and contributes to environmental protection. It reflects the values of sustainability, health, and innovation.”

The Hydroponic Kitchen Garden follows Queen’s College’s successful 2023 SHOUT project—a water purification and refill station spearheaded by Vasanna Persaud, the 2023 Guyana Youth Environmental Speaker. This system saved over 21,000 plastic bottles from entering landfills by transforming tap water into clean drinking water. Supported by the Greater Guyana Initiative, the project has since expanded to West Demerara Secondary School, underscoring the long-term potential of student-led environmental solutions.

Recover Guyana, a non-profit organisation dedicated to building sustainable opportunities for vulnerable communities, is at the forefront of these initiatives. By integrating innovation, education, and sustainability, the Hydroponic Kitchen Garden System is poised to become a model for schools and communities across Guyana.

As SHOUT continues to provide a platform for youth leadership, Queen’s College remains a testament to how education can drive meaningful change. With projects like these, Guyana is cultivating not only fresh produce but also a generation of environmentally conscious leaders.