Horticultural Tunnels at Oosrand School Are Growing Young Farmers and Strengthening Food Security
Farmers Magazine | 19.08.2026 17:50
In the heart of Reiger Park, east of Johannesburg, two horticultural tunnels at Oosrand Commerce and Entrepreneurship School are doing far more than producing vegetables. Rows of spinach, cabbage, tomatoes, green peppers, chillies and eggplant are giving learners the opportunity to experience agriculture as a practical skill, a potential career and a pathway to entrepreneurship. The programme is helping young people understand how food is produced while showing them how farming can contribute to household incomes, community development and food security. Since the Shoprite Foundation established the tunnels two years ago, learners have harvested approximately 5,000 units of crops while gaining experience that extends beyond the classroom. The project demonstrates how practical agricultural education can equip young people with skills they can use at school, at home and in future farming businesses.
