The Ecosystem Sustainability Network (EcoSusNet) flags off a Climate Change Education Program (C-CEP) aimed at capturing the attention of over 500 young people on climate change literacy at Gusau, the capital city of Zamfara State, Nigeria.
This was done in collaboration with the Zamfara state chapter of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Youth With A Difference Initiative (YOWADI) and Civil Alliance for Climate Action (CACA).
The flagship event took place on June 13, 2023, at Government Science Secondary School Gusau.
Commenting on the event, Mr Stephen Abu, Chairman of the Board of Trustees EcoSusNet noted that climate change was not a distant threat.
“Climate change is a reality that impacts us every day. From rising temperatures and extreme weather events to sea level rise and loss of biodiversity, the effects of climate change are undeniable. As responsible stewards of our planet, it is our duty to act, and education is our most powerful weapon,” he said.
Jiata Ekele, Executive Director of EcoSusNet, added that it is a thing of joy to see that an idea is birthing into reality.
“Few months ago, we started the process of the partnership, and here we are today, flagging off the programme to kick off in three adopted schools,” she said.
“In Nigeria, a nation blessed with diverse ecosystems and abundant resources, the need for climate change education is paramount. Our young minds are the agents of change, and through this programme, we are sowing the seeds of awareness, understanding, and action,” she continued.
Jiata charged the students to live by what they would be taught across the programme.
She also appreciated the heads of schools adopted for teaching for their maximum cooperation in bid of the success of the programme.
In his opening address, Tashi Manasseh the convener addressed that the flag-off event was to give guidelines and adequate information to the adopted schools where the climate teaching sessions will be heard before the commencement of the project.
He also charged the students to develop interest and commitment in learning about climate.
Manasseh added that our young minds need to be equipped with knowledge on the world’s pressing issues. Climate change education is an essential element of the global response to achieving a sustainable environment.
Speaking on behalf of the State Coordinator NYSC, Zamfara Zubairu Mada, appreciated the organizers for identifying a global need in the community he is serving and contributing his quota to the environmental sustainability of that community.
He charged all the heads of the adopted schools to embrace the program and make the most of it.
Speaking on behalf of the head of the adopted schools, Nazir Nagawaggo, the principal of Government Science Secondary School Gusau appreciated the initiator, partners, and sponsors of the program.
He gave assurance of their commitment to supporting the success of the program and making the most of this great opportunity to learn about climate change.
He also appreciated the NYSC Scheme for contributing to national development through the Community Development Service.
