SHADEF Moves to Establish Environmentalists Club Across Nigerian Schools
…Inaugurates Club at Independence High School, Ukana,Essien Udim
By Ekemini Simon
As part of its climate education objective, Safe Space Development Foundation (SHADEF) has launched a project targeted at sensitising young people to take climate action that will save the planet-earth.
SHADEF, a non-governmental organisation with the focus to combat climate change and protect the environment, had recently announced its plan on sensitization for climate action through the establishment of Young Environmentalists Club (YEs) across Nigerian schools.
The Initiative which birthed at Independence High School, Ukana, Essien Udim in Akwa Ibom State last week witnessed the inauguration of the 77 students into the maiden Young Environmentalists Club (YEs) said to be an initiative that will serve as a platform to actively engage young minds in environmental conservation, as well as to educate and raise awareness about the causes and consequences of climate change.
The event also witnessed the sensitization and awareness talk to the students and teachers of the school.
The Executive Director of Safe Space Development Foundation, Evelyn Eyo who spoke about climate change offered insight into the detrimental effects of plastic pollution, gas flaring, oil spillage, and excessive energy consumption.
Eyo noted that the organisation is keen on supporting the club through structured sessions which will include teachings by resource persons, excursions, inter-school debates, recycling and hands on learning sessions, pet projects among other environmentally creative activities.
She added ” Today, the establishment and inauguration of the Young Environmentalists Club at Independence High School marks a significant step towards nurturing environmentally conscious leaders of tomorrow. We are targeting schools across Nigeria in no time.
“Safe Space Development Foundation remains committed to fostering environmental education and sustainable practices at the grassroots.”
On his part, the Geography Teacher of the School and Supervisor of the Club, Mr. Dan Paul said the YEs club will convene once a month on every second Thursdays at 2pm. He assured that with the leadership structure of the club in place, the students will play pivotal roles in organising and promoting the club activities.
Resource Persons from the Ministry of Environment and Mineral Resources, Mr. Emeti Attai and Mrs. Helen Ekpe were on hand to provide valuable insights into environmental issues, climate education and conservation practices.
Attai commended Safe Space Development Foundation for the initiative and intervention describing it as timely. He said the choice of the organisation to target the young people is plausible and will bear credible fruits since they are the future leaders.
He encouraged students to actively participate in the club’s activities and absorb valuable lessons that will help them make better decisions and choices concerning their environment.