The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has launched a significant initiative to equip Ghana's youth with knowledge about climate change. This campaign aims to foster environmental stewardship and build climate-resilient communities across the nation. The program focuses on schools as a key starting point for impactful change. Hundreds of pupils have already participated in these vital lessons.
The EPA's Kasoa Area Office led a week-long education drive. This occurred in schools throughout the Effutu Municipality, Gomoa East District, and Agona West Municipality. The activities coincided with World Environment Day 2026. The global theme was "Climate Action." Ghana's national theme was "Building a Climate-Resilient Ghana through Responsible Stewardship." The EPA officers visited 25 basic schools. They taught pupils about the causes and effects of climate change. Lessons covered environmental conservation, effective waste management, and the importance of tree planting. Students received encouragement to adopt sustainable lifestyle habits. They were also urged to share these climate-smart practices with their families and friends.
This initiative highlights Ghana's broader economic and environmental strategy. The nation faces increasing challenges from climate change impacts. These include unpredictable weather patterns and their effect on agriculture and infrastructure. Building resilience is therefore a critical national priority. Educating young people is a long-term investment. It aims to create a generation that understands environmental responsibility. Data from the Ghana Statistical Service often points to the vulnerability of certain economic sectors. These sectors include agriculture and coastal communities to climate shifts. This program directly addresses the need for adaptation and mitigation measures.
Dawood Abbas, Kasoa EPA Area Head, emphasized the urgency. He stated that climate change is already impacting lives, livelihoods, and natural resources. He described educating young people as a highly effective method to drive lasting environmental change. Abbas urged schools to translate climate knowledge into practical actions. Rev. Atta Mensah, Municipal Chief Executive for Effutu Municipality, also spoke at the closing event in Winneba. He called for collective efforts to tackle environmental issues. He urged students, teachers, and community members to embrace sustainable practices and participate actively in conservation initiatives.
The program's success is measured through school assessments. Schools were evaluated on their understanding of climate change. They were also assessed on environmental cleanliness and sustainability practices. Participation in climate action activities was also reviewed. Unipra South Junior High School emerged as the overall winner. Don Bosco 'A' Junior High School and Winneba M/A Junior High School secured second and third place. The top schools received practical tools like grass trimmers and waste bins. All participating schools were awarded certificates and waste bins. These resources will support ongoing environmental management efforts. The EPA views this program as part of wider efforts. They seek to empower youth to take charge of environmental protection. This will help build communities better prepared for climate-related challenges.