Inclusion and Biodiversity: APEI Young Adults Discover PRNC’s Nursery

As part of its educational and awareness-raising programme, PRNC recently opened the doors of its nursery to a group of young adults from the Association of Parents and Friends of Children with Disabilities (APEI-NC). Active in New Caledonia for more than 40 years, the association works to promote the inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities.

An Immersive Experience in Plant-Related Careers

The aim of this visit was to introduce the young participants to the diversity of careers involved in preserving and enhancing plant heritage. It was a unique opportunity for them to discover the different stages of plant production, from seed collection in the Great South region to planting as part of reforestation projects.

Across an area of 2,500 km², PRNC’s nursery teams carry out continuous monitoring to collect seeds at the right time. The young visitors were able to follow the complete plant production process: seed drying, preparation of growing substrates (coconut fibre, perlite, compost), and germination in an industrial greenhouse.

The Goro Nursery also works in partnership with satellite nurseries in Yaté, which are involved in ecological compensation initiatives for the Blue River Park.

A Meaningful First Step

For PRNC, this first visit by a group of young people with intellectual disabilities represents a significant step towards greater inclusion in environmental careers.

As highlighted by Stephan Mc Coy, Environmental Preservation Specialist:

“This is a positive evolution in environmental professions. Welcoming these young people is a first step, and it gives us great hope for the future. People who were overlooked 40 years ago are now being included.”

This meeting provided an opportunity to showcase the nursery’s expertise, strengthen ties with the local community, and demonstrate PRNC’s commitment to both environmental preservation and inclusion.