Enugu State Government Launches Climate Education Initiative for Young People
The Enugu State Government has taken significant steps to raise awareness about climate change among the youth by educating students and teachers on the challenges posed by this global issue. This initiative was highlighted during a one-day capacity-building training session focused on the use of the Climate Education Manual, which was launched by the government in March 2025.
The training event took place at the Parliament Hall of the Enugu State Post-Primary Schools Management Board and brought together more than 50 participants, including students, teachers, and education stakeholders. The manual, developed through a collaborative effort between teachers and students under the guidance of Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke, with support from the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom, aims to provide young learners with practical knowledge and skills to understand and tackle climate change effectively.
At the event, Mrs Nkechinyere Mbah, the wife of the Governor of Enugu State, was represented by Mrs Chinyere Ugwu, the wife of the Speaker of the State House of Assembly. She praised the initiative as a commendable effort to cultivate environmentally responsible citizens. “The role of teachers is crucial in making this process successful, as they must train students to become climate ambassadors,” she emphasized.
Prof. Sam Ugwu, the Commissioner for Environment, was represented by Dr Nnamdi Arum, the Director of the Department of Climate Change. He commended the organizers for empowering young people to be aware of climate change challenges and promoting sustainable solutions. “This initiative marks a significant step towards equipping our educators and students with the knowledge and skills needed to understand and address climate change. By providing them with the tools and resources outlined in the Climate Manual, we can foster a culture of sustainability and environmental stewardship in our schools and communities,” he stated.
The program was organized by the Society for Planet and Prosperity in partnership with the Office of the First Lady of Enugu State and the Office of the Senior Adviser to the Governor on Climate Policy and Sustainable Development.
During the event, experts conducted training sessions on various topics covered in the Climate Manual, such as:
- Climate Change Evidence and Causes
- Human Impacts on the Environment
- Water, Sanitation and Hygiene
- Renewable Energy
- Clean Cooking
- Climate Change Careers
- Becoming a Green Ambassador through school environmental clubs
Participants also had the opportunity to engage in hands-on demonstrations, such as making briquettes from waste materials and creating ottoman chairs using plastic waste, showcasing innovative recycling methods.
Rev. Fr. Hillary Mgbodile, the Chairman of the Post-Primary Schools Management Board, commended the organizers for their efforts and urged the initiative to be expanded to more schools. “I commend the SA and the Office of the First Lady for this great initiative and urge teachers and students to share the knowledge with their peers in their various schools,” he said.
Mrs Zita Oba, the Director of Schools Services, Ministry of Education, was represented by Mrs Agbo Nkem. She thanked the organizers for fulfilling their promise of training staff and students, while calling for the program to be extended to primary schools to ensure continuity and sustainability.
According to the program organizers, the next phase of the project will involve establishing Green Clubs in secondary schools across the state, with participating schools serving as pilot hubs for promoting sustainability and environmental awareness.