Mountain Partnership

Hydroponic School Garden in Uganda

FAO estimates point to a high incidence of diet-related challenges among school children in Uganda, linked to limited access to safe and nutritious food. About 20 per cent of children are overweight or obese, while another 10 per cent face other diet-related issues. Schools struggle to provide optimal nutrition due to resource constraints. Meals are often low in fibre and micronutrients, and the cost of nutritious school meals can often burden families.

The "Hydroponic School Garden in Uganda" project aims to improve students’ nutrition and understanding of sustainable agrifood systems through the installation of an innovative hydroponic cultivation system in schools. The project also provides hands-on learning and training for teachers, cooks and students to build knowledge on hydroponic cultivation practices, plant growth, nutrition and sustainability.

Developed by the Mountain Partnership Secretariat in collaboration with FAO Uganda, the initiative builds on a pilot hydroponic garden at FAO headquarters. It was selected by the FAO Elevate Innovation Fund from a highly competitive pool of more than 100 international proposals.

The first garden was installed at St. Kizito Namugongo School in Kampala, providing over 1 200 students with fresh, organic vegetables for school meals while reducing costs for the school.

The project also includes the following components:

  • Development of an interdisciplinary education programme focused on nutrition and sustainability
  • Training of school staff, student representatives and cooks
  • Creation of management and maintenance manuals for long-term sustainability
  • Engagement with local stakeholders to ensure ownership and scalability
Key facts of the hydroponic system
  • Operates with tap water, reducing the need for demineralized water and avoiding resource waste
  • Powered by organic fertilizers, lowering the ecological footprint
  • Microorganisms in the water improve plants’ resilience to heat and pests
  • Designed for outdoor use, requiring no artificial light and very low energy input
  • Built with 90 per cent certified sustainable wood, minimizing the use of plastic
  • Adaptable and replicable in water-scarce areas, including schools, buildings, mountain villages and urban settings