By Rachel Keke
As the world marks International Environmental Day, there is no better time to reflect on one of the most overlooked truths of our time - the powerful connection between the environment and learning.
Beyond the walls of classrooms and the pages of textbooks, nature stands as humanity’s oldest and most faithful teacher. Long before we had formal education systems, we learned from the rustling of leaves, the migration of birds, the rising and setting of the sun and the patterns of the stars all served as learning elements to mankind. The environment is beyond just being a backdrop for life - it is a living library filled with lessons waiting to be understood.
Learning From Nature:
Nature has always been a school of observation, reflection, and wisdom. The resilience of the baobab tree teaches us patience and strength. The migratory habits of animals show us timing and direction. The seasonal cycles of rain and drought instruct us on preparation and adaptation. Even ants and bees- tiny as they are demonstrate extraordinary teamwork, structure, and diligence. I cease every opportunity possible to have my coaching session with children and youth in an outdoor environment because it offers us multiple illustrations to learn from nature.
In many African cultures, this form of environmental learning was a norm. Elders told stories by the firelight about the ways of the earth, young ones were taught farming, hunting, fishing, and herbal medicine-all in tune with the seasons. My Mum was our community story teller, I learnt a lot of wisdom from her folk tales which was linked to everything we see, feel and touch in our environment. These were not outdated ways of life, but deep intelligent systems rooted in the harmony between people and their natural surroundings.
The Danger of Blind Modernization
However, as modernization sweeps across Africa like a raging wildfire, we are beginning to lose touch with this ancient wisdom. Skyscrapers rise where forests once stood, imported foods replace indigenous crops, and children grow up knowing how to use smartphones but not how to recognize the medicinal plants in their own backyard.
Modern technology is not evil but blind modernization is dangerous. It risks replacing relevance with trend, wisdom with convenience, and sustainability with artificial speed. When we label our climate, traditions, or natural lifestyle as “backward” or “outdated,” we dismiss the very systems that have sustained our communities for generations.
Why the Natural Climate is Important
Africa is blessed with diverse climates, rich soils, vast wildlife, and unique ecosystems that should not be underestimated or underutilized. Our natural environment not only feeds us but also nurtures our minds. Studies show that being close to nature enhances focus, creativity, emotional regulation, and holistic development—qualities essential for effective learning and balanced living.
When we eat foods that grow in our native climate, we nourish ourselves naturally. When we learn in open, natural settings, we think with greater clarity and peace. The environment doesn’t just support learning it deepens it.
A Call to African Families, Educators, and Leaders
We must reclaim the classroom that nature provides. As we modernize, let us do so in view of our natural environment. African schools should include environmental education not just as a subject, but as a practice, gardening, nature walks, farming clubs, and eco-friendly projects. Parents should encourage their children to spend time outdoors, learn traditional wisdom, and appreciate their environment.
Let us not trade our natural wealth for artificial brightness. Let us raise a generation of Africans who can code apps and plant trees, who speak global languages and understand the language of our motherland.
In Conclusion
This International Environmental Day is not just a celebration but a call to remember. Africa must not forget that our environment is not outdated, it is our greatest inheritance and one of our most vital teachers. If we want our children to grow wise, strong, and grounded, we must let their environment and our God given nature remain part of their learning journey.
Let us not run so fast with modernization that we leave behind the footprints of wisdom etched in our environment.
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