By Our Reporter
Thirty-six public and 32 private schools across Abuja have pledged their participation in the first-ever Nigerian Students Climate Summit, hosted by Clean Technology Hub in partnership with the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI) of the FCT Education Secretariat and with generous support from the Skool Foundation. This landmark event promises to be a platform for student leadership, fostering collaboration and action on environmental issues.
The organisers have scheduled the Nigerian Students Climate Summit for 6 June 2024.
“We are thrilled to see such a phenomenal response from schools,” said Mrs Ginika Okorafor, Environment and Climate Action Manager at Clean Technology Hub. “This summit signifies a shift – students are no longer bystanders in the climate conversation. They are actively seeking solutions, and the CTH is committed to providing them with the resources and platform to make a difference.”
The summit will be a day-long event packed with engaging activities. Students will participate in panel sessions led by student experts, researchers, and environmental activists. These panel sessions will cover various topics, from understanding climate science and its local impacts to exploring clean energy solutions and sustainable practices.
In a statement, Jesse Gurdah, a CTH Communication Officer, said that a critical summit highlight will be the Clean Tech Innovation Challenge, where students develop and pitch innovative ideas for solving real-world environmental problems.
“The summit is designed to be interactive and solution-oriented,” explained Ifechi Anikwe, the event’s lead organiser. “Students will have the opportunity to brainstorm ideas, collaborate on projects, and develop action plans to address environmental challenges within their schools and communities.”
Young environmental leaders from participating schools will share their projects, initiatives, and success stories, inspiring and motivating their peers in a student-led panel discussion.
The Students Climate Summit will offer networking and interaction opportunities. The CTH is dedicated to fostering a collaborative environment. Students can network with peers from different schools, build connections, and form partnerships for future projects. This cross-pollination of ideas and experiences will be crucial in creating a powerful youth-driven movement for climate action.
The summit is more than just a one-day event. The CTH plans to create a lasting network of student environmental leaders. Post-summit resources and mentorship opportunities will allow students to continue their work and make a tangible impact on their communities.
CTH MD Ify Malo affirmed, “With 68 schools already on board and more expressing interest, the Students Climate Summit promises to be a resounding success. This event is a testament to the growing youth-led climate movement and young people’s crucial role in shaping a sustainable future. The summit is a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of collaboration, innovation, and a shared passion for protecting our planet.”