Environmental Programs

Learning to Care for the Land We Live On

EGK integrates environmental awareness into its educational programmes, recognising the strong relationship between local communities, land, and natural resources in Sumba.

Environmental activities are designed to be hands-on and locally relevant, helping students understand sustainability through practice rather than theory. These programmes may include:

• Waste awareness and basic recycling practices

• Creative upcycling activities using everyday materials

• Discussions on water use, land care, and climate impacts

• Community clean-up days and reflection sessions

Through these initiatives, students learn that caring for the environment is a shared responsibility and an essential part of community well-being.

Mangrove Protection & Regeneration

Mangroves play a vital role in protecting coastal ecosystems. They reduce erosion and flooding, buffer the impact of storms, provide habitat for marine life, and store significant amounts of carbon. For coastal communities in Sumba, healthy mangrove forests are essential for both environmental resilience and livelihoods.

Through the Grow Mangroves, Green Sumba initiative, English Goes to Kampung works with local communities in West Sumba to restore and protect mangrove ecosystems near Kerewe Beach, Desa Patiala Bawa. To date, more than 15,000 native mangroves have been planted, restoring over 30 hectares of coastline.

This programme goes beyond tree planting. Local mangrove caretakers are employed to ensure long-term maintenance, while regular monitoring, clean-ups, and community involvement help protect the area over time. Looking ahead, EGK aims to expand the project to reach 50,000 mangroves, strengthening coastal protection and biodiversity for future generations.

By involving youth, schools, and community members, the mangrove programme also serves as a powerful learning platform — connecting environmental care with education, responsibility, and collective action.