The Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Tajikistan, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), and the Russian Social and Industrial Foodservice Institute (SIFI) are launching the second annual school garden competition. This initiative brings together teachers, students, and parents around a simple but powerful idea: turning school plots into places where children learn to grow organic foods, care for the environment, and work as a team.

An ordinary school plot can become a true treasure trove of knowledge, health, and inspiration. That’s exactly what the new competition, Best School Mini Garden 2025, is all about. This year, the competition is held under the inspiring motto “Treasures of the Earth: The Organic Dream Garden.”

Garden as growth point

Every school participating in the WFP’s School Feeding Programme can submit an application by August 30 and join this green adventure. The competition offers not only a bountiful harvest but also valuable prizes: grants of 10,000 somoni for the best projects in the categories of “vegetable garden,” “orchard,” and “greenhouse,” as well as useful equipment for the runners-up.

However, the most important reward is the chance to turn a small patch of land into a living laboratory — where children don’t just dig and water, but learn how organic farming works, why worms matter, how to water smartly, and how to practice healthy eating and environmental care.

What to do?

Each school must select a plot of approximately 5×10 meters and create a truly remarkable project there.

Under the guidance of teachers and parents, children will grow organic fruits and vegetables using innovative organic farming techniques. The focus is not only on harvesting crops but also on creatively presenting the project, involving the local community, and organizing lively events around harvesting and using the produce.

What’s Next? By October 30, schools must submit photos of their projects, a video, and a brief description. A panel of experts from the Ministries of Education and Agriculture will evaluate the best projects.

At the same time, a creative competition will be held for students. Young artists will illustrate the magic of their dream garden, while older students will write essays sharing how organic farming can transform a schoolyard and even change their communities.

You can find more information about participation at https://schoolmeals.maorif.tj/

If you have questions, feel free to contact us at ozmunibogdori@gmail.com or call +992 93 722 4444.

Let your gardens become places of inspiration and discovery!