JNF, Walter Sisulu Environmental Centre, Mamelodi
The JNF Walter Sisulu Environmental Centre opened in Mamelodi on 14 September 2004. It is the first such project of its kind in South Africa, to create an environmentally friendly building that demonstrates natural thermal comfort, natural lighting and natural ventilation methods in everyday use.

The mission is to create a culture of community conservation in Mamelodi and Southern Tshwane with the aim of developing awareness amongst the youth to inspire and motivate them to preserve and utilise the wealth of our natural heritage.

The JNF Walter Sisulu Environmental Centre creates a venue for the learners and educators of Mamelodi Schools, the 186 schools in the Southern Tshwane Educational District and the surrounding community to learn about the environment. It provides key applications and resources for educators integrating the environment into the Outcomes Based Curriculum (OBE) currently being incorporated into the Education System.

Education is a fundamental key to addressing historical imbalances in South Africa and the answer to many of the social and economic problems facing the country. Environmental education is becoming a primary subject in schools throughout the country as the environment has been named a "phase organiser" in the Outcomes Based Education system. While this is an extremely exciting development many educators do not have the skills or resources to make this happen. This centre will support and train educators as well as host environmental outings for learners.

The centre demonstrates in practical and visible way actions that could be taken by South Africans that promote both development objectives and climate change mitigation. Interactive educational programmes will ensure that this is achieved in an entertaining and stimulating way.

Funding Requirements:
The JNF Walter Sisulu Environmental Centre is still in the establishment phase and requires ongoing funding for exiting development opportunities such as a Open Source Linux Development Facilitator to develop a web site based at the centre documenting activities, Environmental Programme Facilitators, a Bus to transport learners, Educational Displays, Environmental Educator Development Courses, School Gardens, Medicinal & Edible Garden Workshops, Programme Management & Operational Costs, Resource Development, Nature Expeditions and Centre Administration.

Please contact The Jewish National Fund for additional information or innovative solutions to get your company involved in developing this leading environmental education discovery facility, creating community conservation champions for the environment.