Planet Children Survey

By PRINCE MUPINDU

Purpose of Survey

This survey serves to inquire about the dynamic interests of young children living in the Boitshebello community. It is a precursor to the flagship “Planet Children” program, thus a stride to identify significant barriers to young children’s dreams and aspirations. Consequently, the programs for Planet Children are guided by the very needs of the community; thus, this survey is conducted

Consequently, the programs for Planet Children are guided by the very needs of the community thus this survey is conducted.

BACKGROUND

Passionate and driven by the commitment to make a meaningful impact on community development, Planet Savers seeks to integrate young children into sustainable development. Resultantly, Planet Savers has targeted the empowerment of children living within underprivileged and marginalised communities. Through the flagship program “Planet Children”, earmarked for building a conscious and sustainable generation, Planet Children are educated on the importance of nature conservation. Henceforth, the baseline survey conducted on children living within the Botshabelo Community is an attempt to extract and stimulate the imagination of young African children.

METHODOLOGY

The survey was conducted at Boitshebello School to 51 respondents aged between 14 and 16. Respondents were asked to write their individual answers through a structured questionnaire that contained a list of short and simplified questions. The survey was aided by volunteer teachers who assisted the young students with relevant translation when required.

Big 5 Findings

Profession

Respondents were asked to state the desired profession they would seek to pursue. Of the 51 respondents, 20 wanted to be footballers while others preferred the arts, medical and engineering professions.

As illustrated to the right, a higher percentage of young children dream of becoming footballers. 22% of the respondents envision having a career in arts, while a considerable 20% of the respondents are motivated to become medical doctors.

SUBJECT

Education is the bedrock and foundation of a prosperous community. Premised on the goal of educating and inspiring, the program is designed to amplify the education capacity of Planet Children. The respondents were asked to name their favourite subjects in academic education through a questionnaire.

As illustrated to the right, math is the most loved subject, with more than half the respondents. Languages occupy the second most loved subject, 29%, while 13% of young students are interested in science.

TALENT/PASSION

To identify the Planet Children’s talents and passion, a questionnaire was administered asking about the interests and natural abilities of all respondents.

Illustrated to the right is the presentation of data collected highlighting the respective passion and talents of respondents. Evidently, most young students have a passion for football. However, arts occupy an essential place in children’s imagination; some prefer drawing, singing, and dancing.

Recommendations:

From the gathered evidence in this Planet Children Survey, the following can be recommended:

1. Identifying and investing in young children’s strengths.
Leadership training in career guidance for young children.
Availing required resources to support arts and sports.
Organising climate and environmental workshops for young children.
Empower young climate and nature conservation agents for climate adaptation.

The Boitshebello community faces immense challenges, including poverty, unemployment, and limited access to essential resources. For many families, putting food on the table is a daily struggle, and children often bear the brunt of these hardships. Hunger not only affects their physical growth but also hinders their ability to concentrate and excel in school, perpetuating a cycle of poverty. Recognising this, Planet Savers has taken a hands-on approach to address these issues by providing consistent support to the community. Their mission is clear: to alleviate immediate needs while fostering long-term opportunities for growth and development.

In collaboration with Maropeng, Planet Savers has implemented a program that supplies nutritious meals to 200 children in the community. The focus on nutrition is strategic. Studies show a balanced diet is essential for cognitive function, memory retention, and overall academic performance. By ensuring these children receive meals rich in essential nutrients, Planet Savers is giving them the tools they need to succeed—not just in the classroom but in life. This program has been a game-changer for many families who no longer have to worry about their children going to school on an empty stomach.

The ripple effects of this initiative are felt beyond the school environment. The partnership extends to local soup kitchens, which serve as vital lifelines for the broader community, providing meals to those who need them most. These kitchens not only address hunger but also serve as communal spaces where neighbours can connect and support one another.

Maropeng’s involvement has been pivotal in the success of this initiative. Their role as a fundraising partner has allowed Planet Savers to sustain and expand its efforts, ensuring consistent support to the children and families of Boitshebello. Their commitment to social responsibility aligns seamlessly with PS’s mission, creating a partnership built on shared values and a deep desire to uplift those in need.

Cameron Bramley and the entire Planet Savers team extend their heartfelt gratitude to Maropeng for their unwavering support. Thanks to their efforts, the dream of creating a healthier, more focused, and hopeful generation in Boitshebello is becoming a reality. This partnership exemplifies how organisations working together can transform lives, one meal at a time, and build a stronger, more resilient community for the future.