Pietermaritzburg – Spades in hand, school colours proudly worn and determination written on their faces – 40 boys from four of KwaZulu-Natal’s leading schools descended on Ferncliffe Forest for the second annual Husqvarna Schools Forest Rehabilitation Challenge.
What began in 2024 as a pilot event between Weston Agricultural College and Durban High School has already doubled in size.
This year saw both schools return, joined by Maritzburg College and Westville Boys’ High School, in a race where teamwork and endurance mattered just as much as speed.
Held in partnership with non-profit organisation, Ferncliffe Forest Wilding, the challenge tested each team’s ability to dig 10 planting holes across three different stations in the threatened mistbelt forest – all while working together and caring for the natural environment around them.
The Challenge began with an environmental lesson, led by Husqvarna veld management specialist Divan Vermaak, before the boys set off with spades, gloves, and maps to navigate the course.
The rules required teams to stay together, complete each section in full before moving on, and tread carefully to protect the fragile indigenous plants around them.
After an afternoon of spirited competition, Maritzburg College emerged victorious, lifting the trophy and earning their school a Husqvarna PW 480 Pressure Washer worth R11 700.
Weston Agricultural College, last year’s champs, secured second place, followed by Durban High School in third and Westville Boys’ High School in fourth.
Each of the three runner-up schools received vouchers to redeem at Husqvarna’s online store, and all participants walked away with a certificate recognising their contribution.
Husqvarna South Africa’s marketing manager, Timothy Isabirye, said the success of the challenge lies in its ability to grow year by year.
“Last year was about testing the concept. This year, we doubled the number of schools involved. Next year, our ambition is to grow again,” he explained.
“The point is that every year, the impact becomes greater.
“More schools, more boys, more trees in the ground, and more young people learning what it means to give back to their environment.”
He added that he was incredibly impressed by the way all the boys gave their all – not only to win, but to be part of something that leaves a lasting legacy.
For Husqvarna, the Schools Forest Rehabilitation Challenge is more than a competition.
It reflects the brand’s long-term commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
Held during Arbour Week, the initiative also highlighted the vital role trees play in protecting ecosystems and inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards.
“It is not just about winning on the day, it’s about planting the idea of stewardship. Our goal is to teach the boys that when you protect the environment, you are protecting your own future,” Isabirye concluded.
