As the world prepares to mark World Water Day on 22 March, Seriti Institute is bringing water conservation education directly to communities through activities with young learners at Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres across South Africa.
Observed annually on 22 March, World Water Day raises awareness about the importance of freshwater and inspires action to address global water challenges. In South Africa, where water scarcity and climate pressures continue to affect communities, education and responsible water use remain critical.
To mark the occasion, Seriti Institute will engage young learners at ECD centres across several communities through storytelling, demonstrations through play, and interactive learning activities that introduce simple habits for protecting and conserving water.
The initiative is implemented through Seriti Institute’s aRe Bapaleng and GreenWorks programmes, which focus on strengthening early childhood development, environmental awareness and community resilience.
Through aRe Bapaleng, Seriti Institute works with parents, caregivers and educators to support children’s early development through play-based learning and community engagement. The programme recognises that building a strong foundation for children includes nurturing awareness about the environment and the resources that sustain communities.
At the same time, GreenWorks promotes environmental stewardship and community-led sustainability initiatives, encouraging communities to take practical action to protect natural resources while strengthening livelihoods.
“World Water Day reminds us that water is not only essential for life but also for the well-being and resilience of our communities,” said Sandy Dlamini Zhanda, Seriti Partner Programme Manager.
“By teaching children the value of water from an early age, we are helping to shape a generation that understands that every drop counts and that protecting water is everyone’s responsibility.”
During the activities, learners will explore simple but impactful habits such as closing taps properly, avoiding unnecessary water use, and understanding how water supports food production, health and the environment.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, around 2.1 billion people worldwide still lack access to safely managed drinking water, highlighting the urgent need for awareness, conservation and sustainable water management.
Seriti Institute believes that lasting environmental change begins with education and community participation. By engaging young learners alongside educators and caregivers, the organisation aims to build a culture of water stewardship that extends beyond classrooms into households and communities.
“Celebrating World Water Day within our programmes is about empowering communities with knowledge and practical actions,” said Yashila Govender Technical Officer: Greenworks.
“When children understand the importance of water, they become powerful ambassadors for change within their families and communities.”
As South Africa continues to navigate growing water challenges, initiatives that promote awareness, responsible water use and environmental stewardship remain vital for building sustainable and resilient communities.
Through programmes like aRe Bapaleng and GreenWorks, Seriti Institute continues to work alongside communities to ensure that protecting water today helps secure a healthier future for generations to come.
