Hydroponic gardening at Maris Stella VSBO

At Maris Stella VSBO in Willemstad, Curaçao, students explored sustainable food production through gardening, composting and hydroponics. Faced with limited space for traditional cultivation and the challenges of a dry climate, the school embraced an innovative solution: growing crops through hydroponics, a cultivation method in which plants are grown in nutrient-rich water instead of soil.

To master this less common technique, students visited local reference projects and learned directly from experienced growers. They then put their knowledge into practice by designing and managing their own hydroponic system. The result was impressive: a productive growing installation where vegetables could thrive despite the challenging conditions, carefully protected from the island’s resourceful iguanas, which were equally interested in the harvest.

The project offered much more than technical skills. Through hands-on activities, students gained insight into plant growth, water management, composting, and sustainable cultivation methods. Concepts that often remain theoretical became tangible through daily observation and experimentation. They learned how different growing systems can contribute to food security and climate resilience, while discovering innovative alternatives to conventional agriculture.

As a culinary school, Maris Stella VSBO connected food production directly to students’ future careers. Vegetables and herbs grown by the students were incorporated into seasonal dishes, creating a direct link between cultivation, cooking and sustainable food choices. This encouraged reflection on local food production, responsible consumption and the reduction of food waste.

The hydroponic garden also became a shared project for the wider school community. Students, teachers and staff worked together to maintain the system, solve practical challenges and care for the crops throughout the year. The first harvest was a proud moment, demonstrating how creativity, teamwork and perseverance can turn an ambitious idea into a successful and sustainable reality. By introducing students to innovative agricultural practices, the project broadened their understanding of resilient food systems and prepared them to contribute to a more sustainable future.