The Experimental Farm, under the leadership of Ms. Thifheli Kutama, collaborated with the Student Housing Unit to successfully launch the “One Res, One Garden” initiative as part of an entrepreneurship project. The Experimental Farm is an integral part of the Faculty of Science, Engineering, and Agriculture, which is managed by Prof. Potgieter, the Executive Dean. Meanwhile, the Student Housing Unit is led by Mr. Azwidowi Mukheli, the Dean of Students.
The “One Res, One Garden” initiative is an entrepreneurial project designed for students living in university residences. This programme promotes entrepreneurship, encourages self-sufficiency, enhances the aesthetics of student living spaces, and raises awareness about agriculture as a field of study.
In this project, the Experimental Farm provides vital resources for establishing the gardens, including seedlings, organic manure, and skilled labour for planting sessions with students. Student Housing staff work alongside students to maintain the gardens, ensuring consistent upkeep and efficient operations.
The primary objectives of the “One Res, One Garden” Initiative are to:
- Instil an entrepreneurial mindset in students, equipping them with valuable skills for their future endeavours.
- Educate students on growing their own food, promoting self-sufficiency, and sustainable living practices.
- Improve the overall aesthetic appeal of student residences through the creation of vibrant green spaces.
- Attract more students to the field of agriculture by demonstrating its practical applications and the joys of
growing one’s own food.
- Contribute to food security, enabling students to harvest and consume fresh vegetables from their gardens.
The project has been going on for three years. In 2025, the project reached a new milestone when students decided to share their abundant vegetable harvest with underprivileged communi-ty members. Reflecting the spirit of Ubuntu, the students donated a portion of their produce to the ThohoyaNzie Charity Organisation, showcasing kindness, compassion, and a genuine commitment to helping those in need.
Before handing over the vegetables to the students, they were received by Prof Lindiwe Mulaudzi, the Director: CHETL, along with staff members who expressed their gratitude and appreciation for the project’s success. “May God bless all the students who participated. As the saying goes, who-ever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and He will reward them for what they have done.” This initiative serves as a shining example of entrepreneurship, of how collaboration, compassion, and sustainability can create positive change in the lives of students and the broader community.
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding & Communication University Of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
