Latest Stories - WATERFORD HOSTS SUCCESSFUL MICHAEL STERN LECTURE!

Some of the participants during the Q-and-A session. Photo cred: Kangwen Chen (IB1)7 Feb, 2024

By Mancoba Mabuza, WK Communications & PR Officer

On February 2^nd, 2024, Waterford Kamhlaba UWCSA successfully hosted its annual Michael Stern Lecture Series on campus. This event, held in honour of the College’s Founder, Michael Stern, and to celebrate Waterford Kamhlaba's 61^st birthday, marked another triumphant occasion.

The Stern Lecture Series takes place annually in Term 1 of the academic year and is a hybrid event with a global and local audience. The 2024 speaker was Waterford’s alumnus and the school’s Eco Estates Manager, Steve McGuire, who delivered a comprehensive talk on the topic:

“Sustainable Solutions from a School Born of Hope”

McGuire elaborated on the school’s efforts in achieving environmental sustainability and acknowledged the staff and students who have played a crucial role in the school’s sustainability projects over the years. He highlighted Waterford's enduring commitment to the environment and discussed the school's progress toward achieving neutrality by 2030. Steve emphasized various ongoing projects, including the biodigester, permaculture garden, recycling initiatives, water harvesting, tree planting, and the upcoming solar farm project, which aims to take the school completely off the national grid.

During the event, College Principal Jackie Otula underscored Waterford’s dedication to environmental sustainability and announced the commencement of a fundraising campaign to secure E50 million (approximately $3 million) for establishing the school’s solar farm.

“We are committed to reducing our ecological footprint. This means being mindful of our energy consumption, minimizing waste, and promoting practices that protect our natural resources. Simple acts, such as turning off lights when not needed and recycling our waste, collectively make a significant impact,” said Otula.

The event garnered widespread enthusiasm, featuring the active engagement of the College's alumni alongside other distinguished guests, parents, staff, and students. Notably, a panel of exceptional students showcased their adeptness in addressing audience questions during a dynamic question-and-answer session. This engaging exchange was preceded by a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony, celebrating the school's birthday. The evening concluded on a high note, as guests were treated to refreshments, adding a delightful finishing touch to an unforgettable occasion.

< < < Back to other Latest Stories