The Tribune

THE Bahamas National Pride Association planted soursop and sugar apple trees on the campus of RM Bailey Senior High School, Robinson Road, demonstrating the importance of preserving indigenous fruit trees.

The planting ceremony launched the organisation’s Orchard Project which will be conducted in primary, junior, and senior high schools throughout New Providence. Director Joanne Johnson said the project is an initiative to educate students about native fruits.

Ms Johnson emphasised the need for the children to learn more about indigenous fruits as the majority of them admitted, during the planting, that they had never tasted a soursop or gooseberry before.

Olvin Rees, chairman, said the event was “significant”.

“A lot of us don’t know much about the plants around us. They are very vital and important to us,” Mr Rees said.

“Every plant that God has put here on earth was put here for a reason. Each seed produces a different kind of tree and a different kind of fruit. Each tree has a medicinal or physiological value to your body. The solutions to a lot of our diseases and ailments are right in these plants.

“You are not going to be here to see them develop, mature and bear fruits. Your children and grandchildren will be here. The success and development of these plants are up to you,” he added.

Collin Johnson, principal of RM Bailey, said the school’s environment must be conducive to learning. He thanked the Bahamas National Pride Association for its initiative.

The Orchard Project will move to Sadie Curtis Primary School where 20 hog and scarlet plum trees will be planted throughout the school’s campus.

The Association has also held a Clean Campus Competition in schools for the past eight years.

Patrinella Rolle, represented the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology at the ceremony witnessed by 10th grade students and faculty of the institution.