Through the Community-Based Eco Disaster Risk Reduction II (CBED-II, funded by Sida) project, Save the Children established a demonstration of school gardens in 15 schools in Jawzjan province. These gardens showcase a variety of plants and different land treatments, along with explanations of the underlying theories. The primary objectives of this programme are to promote a practical learning experience among school-going children on good agronomic practices for growing micronutrient-rich crops, demonstrate various technologies for cultivating vegetable crops and climate-resilient crops, and show how to enhance diets with home-grown foods.

Additionally, the programme uses demonstration gardens to enhance learners' skills in harvest planning, food production, post-harvest handling, value addition, and balanced diet consumption. The programme also aims to increase school-going children's preference for and consumption of vegetables and fruits.

Schools have been provided with irrigation equipment, weeding tools, and land preparation facilities to maintain the demonstration school gardens. Furthermore, vegetable seeds have been distributed to school staff and some of the students.

By actively participating in fruit tree planting projects and maintaining them over the years with a sense of ownership, children learn the intricate and time-consuming process of growing plants and vegetables. As they observe the growth of their vegetables and trees, they also understand the environmental and aesthetic benefits these plants offer to the school for generations. Ultimately, this programme helps shape them into environmental stewards who are dedicated to preserving nature and maintaining green spaces in urban areas.

Marium*, a 12-year-old student, shared his experience: "We used to struggle with dust and soil everywhere in our school. Now, we have a green garden on one acre of land surrounded by a fence. This garden not only provides fresh air but also allows us to learn about growing vegetation and how to care for it practically. I even shared my knowledge about cultivating vegetables with my father at home."

Karim Khan*(34), a teacher, says: “As a part-time farmer and a teacher, the training provided by Save the Children staff has greatly enhanced our teaching skills. We now have in school where we can take students and teach them about agriculture. This hands-on experience will enable us to provide students with practical ideas and demonstrate how the environment can be transformed by growing trees and plants."