Rhealyz Africa Global Empowerment Initiative has commissioned an upcycling garden at Fiwasaye Girls Grammar School in Akure, Ondo State, converting plastic waste into a functional, eco-friendly relaxation and reading space for students.
The project, which stands out among secondary schools in Ondo State, recycled more than 10,000 plastic bottles and 30 used tires into eco-benches, stools, bamboo seats, and a colorful walkway decorated with bottle caps, bordered by plastic curbs.
The Rhealyz Africa Upcycling Garden is designed to serve as a model for sustainable school infrastructure, promoting environmental responsibility while enhancing student well-being.
The initiative is the culmination of a six-year effort that began in 2019 when Rhealyz Africa introduced its Girls’ CAP Advocacy Program to train students on using the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as a framework for environmental action.
The installations now sit under shade trees planted by the students in 2019, creating a serene green space for learning and relaxation.
Dr. Ireti Adesida, Founder and Director General of Rhealyz Africa, described the garden as a symbol of innovation and leadership.
“Plastic waste is one of the most urgent environmental challenges of our time. At Rhealyz Africa, we believe girls should not just learn about sustainability—they should lead it. This garden is proof that when girls take ownership, they can turn waste into beauty and challenges into opportunities,” Adesida said.
She added that the garden is more than a recreational space but a classroom without walls and a leadership incubator.
Funmi Aina, one of the students involved in the project, expressed pride in the achievement.
“This garden makes me proud because we created something beautiful from waste. It’s a place where we can read, relax, and know that we are helping the environment,” Aina said.
The garden was commissioned by the Principal of Fiwasaye Girls Grammar School, Dr. Omobola Temitope Ojoge.
Others in attendance included Mrs. Ayo Amure, who represented the Director of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the Ondo State Ministry of Education, and Chief Mrs. Olamide Falana of Girls to Women Development and Research Center.
The Rhealyz Africa team, teachers, and students from Fiwasaye and five other secondary schools in Akure also attended the event.
The event showcased the creativity and leadership of adolescent girls who were involved in every stage of the project, from ideation to execution, reflecting Rhealyz Africa’s commitment to community ownership and practical learning.
Rhealyz Africa has expressed commitment to replicating similar projects in schools across Nigeria and is calling for support from government agencies, private organizations, and individuals to scale the impact.