The Impact of Urban Agriculture on Students’ Life Satisfaction in Eastern Cape, South Africa

Abstract

The importance of agricultural sciences in the school curriculum all over the world cannot be over -emphasized .It include an alternative source of fresh produce, improved life satisfaction and a way to preserve cultural identity and traditions. This study tends to investigate more role of unban agriculture in relation to life satisfaction. The study reveals among others some components of life satisfaction as a result of urban agriculture. These components are; nutrition, self-employment, food security and poverty eradication. The study does not leave behind the economic benefits of urban agriculture such as; income distribution, small scale business to mention a few. The study however recommended among others that the South Africa Government should make agriculture education as a compulsory subject for grade 10 and grade 11 students. This will enable them to develop entrepreneurial skills and self-sufficient mentality before they finish their secondary school careers. The subject will also help them in building job skills, improving self-esteem and contributing to community revitalization. Similarly, the practical components of this subject should constitute 50% if not more from the overall marks. Hence, leaving secondary schools will no longer be a mirage and nightmare all because of no employment. However, some challenges were highlighted this include; limited spaces available, damage to sacks and crops by stray animals, pest and diseases, sustainable access to inputs such as soil, manure, seedlings and water.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n23p1293