There is a growing trend among citizens to take on civic responsibilities and participate in environmental improvement. This was demonstrated by seven students and staff members from the NewBridge Graduate Institute (NGI), who voluntarily dedicated their time to cleaning the streets around the campus in Musgrave.
The cleanup initiative was part of NGI's Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) program. The institution reported that the goal of this event was to encourage students toward an active civic stance while contributing to creating a cleaner and safer environment for residents, businesses, and visitors in the area.
Although the cleanup was a one-time event, NGI emphasized that it reflects a broader commitment to community engagement throughout the year. Vice President Tamrin Collins noted: 'We believe that education extends beyond the classroom, developing graduates who recognize their responsibility to make a positive contribution to the communities where they live, study, and work.' She added that this initiative provided an opportunity for students and staff to demonstrate this commitment through practical action.
Participation was entirely voluntary, as students chose to take part themselves, wishing to bring positive changes to their community. According to Collins, such activities aim to instill values such as leadership, teamwork, environmental care, social responsibility, and community pride. She also noted that the reaction was overwhelmingly positive, as students value opportunities for meaningful involvement.
The initiative was led by Siyabonga Phakati, an NGI graduate specializing in Sports Management who now works with campus administration on organizing student events and community projects. Phakati stated that he wanted to show genuine care for his community. He stressed that caring for the area around the campus demonstrates respect for local residents, workers, and students, and he aimed to inspire others to feel the same sense of responsibility.
For Phakati, this experience reinforced an important understanding: 'It reminded me that everyone has a role in creating cleaner, safer, and more welcoming communities. Small actions can have a long-term impact when people work together.' During the cleanup, members of the public stopped to thank the group, expressing appreciation for seeing young people showing pride in their surroundings. Phakati hopes that this initiative will encourage other students to participate in future projects and motivate more people to realize that positive change often begins with simple acts of service.
