The 2026 Husqvarna South Africa Schools Challenge was held at Greenheart Organics in partnership with Food & Trees for Africa, bringing together teams from five KwaZulu-Natal schools. The competition, now in its third year, has grown from a contest between two schools to a five-school event. This year's challenge involved planting fruit trees to establish a space for community engagement, personal development, and learning.
The teams from Durban High School, Weston Agricultural College, Glenwood High School, Westville Boys’ High School, and Hillcrest High School tested their teamwork, speed, efficiency, and tree-planting skills. The challenge involved the full planting process, from digging and adding compost to planting, mulching, and watering. Ground preparation made the soil softer, but the additional tasks demanded more coordination and care from each team.
Weston Agricultural College was crowned the 2026 champion, winning a Husqvarna blower and a R5,000 voucher to redeem at Husqvarna’s online store. The team's success was attributed to their exceptional teamwork and dedication to the challenge. Educator Kathy Boast expressed pride in the team's achievement, highlighting their hard work and commitment to contributing to something that will have a lasting impact.
Durban High School secured second place and a R5,000 voucher, while Hillcrest High School finished third and received a R2,500 voucher. Every participating school also received a fruit tree to plant on its grounds, allowing learners to put their new skills into practice beyond the competition. The event's evolution reflects Husqvarna South Africa's desire to make its annual Arbour Month initiative more meaningful.
Husqvarna South Africa Marketing Manager Timothy Isabirye emphasized the importance of giving young people the chance to get outside, put their hands in the soil, and realize that planting and caring for trees is something everyone can take part in. The partnership with Food & Trees for Africa connects the event to an organization that works across South Africa through tree-planting, food-security, and environmental programs.
The fruit trees planted during the challenge are intended to benefit the community, but reaching that point takes time, suitable growing conditions, and ongoing care. Isabirye noted that planting day is just the start, and learners should understand that looking after a tree matters just as much as getting it into the ground. The event aims to instill a sense of responsibility and practical skills in the learners.
The 2026 Husqvarna South Africa Schools Challenge demonstrated the value of teamwork, community engagement, and environmental stewardship. The competition serves as a platform for learners to develop new skills, contribute to their community, and take pride in their achievements. Key points include:
Key points
- Weston Agricultural College won the 2026 challenge with a Husqvarna blower and a R5,000 voucher.
- The event involved five schools competing in a tree-planting challenge to promote community engagement and environmental stewardship.
- The challenge aims to instill practical skills and a sense of responsibility in learners, extending beyond the competition itself.
