The Rotary Club of Central Tortola has donated three Hydroponic Towers to Leonora Delville Primary School's agriculture program, enhancing its Growing Minds initiative. Zoe J. Walcott President of the Rotary Club of Central Tortola,Eileen Bourke Youth Director, and Jephete Gordon presented students with the equipment and training to support the initiative. Photo Facebook

On Tuesday, March 3, 2026, the Rotary Club team spent two hours at the school explaining the benefits of hydroponics and assisting students in setting up the three hydroponic towers, each capable of yielding 30 plants. Photo: Facebook

The Growing Minds program provides students with hands-on experience in growing fresh, nutrient-rich produce while promoting lessons in science, sustainability, and self-sufficiency. Photo: Facebook

The Growing Minds programme, conceived by Zoe J. Walcott, President of the Rotary Club of Central Tortola, aims to integrate modern agriculture into the classroom. It provides students with hands-on experience in growing fresh, nutrient-rich produce while promoting lessons in science, sustainability, and self-sufficiency.

Hydroponics is an efficient method of farming that requires significantly less water, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution suitable for the Virgin Islands.

Hydroponics training  

On Tuesday, March 3, 2026, the Rotary Club team spent two hours at the school explaining the benefits of hydroponics and assisting students in setting up the three hydroponic towers, each capable of yielding 30 plants. Plans are already underway to transplant pak choi and lettuce in the coming weeks.

More than just a classroom experiment 

The project reflects the dedication of Eileen Bourke, Youth Director, and the expertise of Jephete Gordon, selected for his knowledge of hydroponic systems. Their guidance ensures that Growing Minds is more than just a classroom experiment; it is a transformative experience that teaches students the value of fresh, locally grown food and sustainable farming.

Walcott stated, “We often say health is wealth, and the healthiest thing our children can do is learn to grow what they eat. Our foreparents tilled the soil by hand, and now we’re showing this generation how to do it efficiently, sustainably, and consciously. Growing Minds is about cultivating knowledge, life skills, and respect for the environment.”

Proud moment 

According to a Facebook post by the school, this was a proud moment for the school community. They expressed immense pride and gratitude to the Rotary Club of Central Tortola for their extraordinary generosity in providing the three hydroponic towers.

"Today marks a groundbreaking milestone; we are beyond proud to announce that we are officially the FIRST public primary school on Tortola to embrace this innovative and sustainable initiative. This is more than a gift; it is an investment in our students’ future, in environmental stewardship, and in hands-on agricultural education that will inspire generations to come."

The post added that students will now have the opportunity to explore modern farming techniques, healthy living, sustainability, and innovation right on the school campus.