In December 2024, the Iimbovane received one of the prestigious Stellenbosch University Social Impact Awards, recognising its influence over the past two decades and celebrating the project’s commitment to community engagement and capacity building in the field of biodiversity and climate education.

The Stellenbosch University Social Impact Awards recognises annually the individuals and teams whose work is making a difference in communities.

Iimbovane was founded in 2006 as a environmental education initiative within the Centre for Invasion Biology and School for Climate Studies, and aims to inspire a passion for the natural environment among learners and to assist educators with CAPS-aligned practical sessions.

The Iimbovane team has provided hands-on learning experiences through numerous school visits and camp programs, equipping over 16 000 learners with the tools to understand ecological processes and appreciate the importance of biodiversity. By participating in Iimbovane activities, learners follow the scientific method and learn much-needed practical science and life skills.

Iimbovane also advocates for science-based careers and seeks to bridge the gap between academia and foundational environmental knowledge for many high school learners.

Read more about the award ceremony here.