Empowering Youth: AFRIWOCC Launches “Africa Students for Climate Action” Initiative

Accra witnessed a significant step forward in the fight against climate change with the launch of the “Africa Students for Climate Action” (ASCA) initiative by the Africa Women and Children Conference (AFRIWOCC). H.E. Samira Bawumia, the Second Lady of Ghana and Chairperson of AFRIWOCC, emphasized the pivotal role that students and young people play in driving sustainable practices and shaping policies for a healthier planet.

Addressing students at the launch event, which coincided with Green Ghana Day, Mrs. Bawumia inspired the young audience to embrace their roles as advocates for the environment. She stated, “My dear students and pupils, as advocates, you have a unique role to play in changing the discourse and shaping policies and actions that will redefine the trajectory of our planet. I encourage you to embrace this opportunity to learn, innovate, and advocate for our environment. Your voices are powerful, and your actions are crucial for a sustainable future.”

The ASCA initiative aims to empower students across Africa to be at the forefront of climate action. Participating schools included Labone Senior High, Accra Girls Senior High, Accra Academy, Achimota Basic School, St. Thomas Aquinas Senior High, Kotobabi Basic Schools, St. Mary SHS, and several Islamic schools.

Mrs. Bawumia highlighted the unprecedented climate crisis facing the planet, with Africa being disproportionately affected despite contributing the least to global emissions. The continent is experiencing increased droughts, floods, and heatwaves, severely impacting agriculture, the economy, livelihoods, and well-being.

Referencing a UNESCO survey, Mrs. Bawumia noted that while 95% of primary and secondary teachers recognized the importance of teaching climate change, only 30% felt prepared to do so. Additionally, 70% of young people felt unprepared to tackle climate change based on their current knowledge. This gap underscores the urgent need for initiatives like ASCA, which aims to equip students with the necessary skills, knowledge, and values to advocate for and implement climate action within their communities.

Dr. Eric Nkansah, Director-General of the Ghana Education Service, emphasized the challenge that climate change and deforestation pose for future generations. He called for bold action to protect the environment and secure a sustainable future for all.

“We at the Ghana Education Service believe that education is not only about acquiring knowledge but also about empowering individuals to transform their lives to contribute to the development of the nation,” Dr. Nkansah stated.

Madam Ophelia Mensah Hayford, Minister of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, highlighted the need to address the impact of climate change on women and youth. She emphasized the importance of empowering the public through education, economic opportunities, and promoting their participation in decision-making processes.

“This is crucial for building community and ensuring sustainable development in the face of climate change. As we launch ASCA, we are empowering the youth to be at the forefront of this fight. Our young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are also the change-makers of today,” she added.

The event was also attended by dignitaries such as Mr. Charles Abaani, United Nations Resident Coordinator, Dr. John Kingsley Krugu, Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and Ms. Roselyn Fosuah Agyei, Director of the Climate Change Directorate at the Forestry Commission. Together with the students, they planted trees to commemorate Green Ghana Day and contribute to combating climate change.

The AFRIWOCC conference and the ASCA initiative mark a significant milestone in amplifying the voices of women and children in climate action, paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future for Africa.