THE CHILDREN’S ROLE IN COMBATING CLIMATE CHANGE: A RECAP OF TRIPLE GREEN ENVIRONMENTAL DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION’S (TGED FOUNDATION) ESSP INITIATIVE IN PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN ADO EKITI.
ESSP 2023 picture taken @ CAC Community Nursery and Primary School, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State
Climate change is no longer a topic for the distant future; its impacts are evident in the present. From shifting weather patterns to rising sea levels, from disruptions in food chains to threats to human health – the world is witnessing the effects of a rapidly changing climate. In this grim backdrop, the role of education becomes pivotal. It not only informs but also empowers individuals, especially the young, to make meaningful contributions towards addressing this crisis.
Recognizing the power of education, the Triple Green Environmental Development Foundation team moved the ESSP initiative to Public Primary Schools in Ado Ekiti City, Ekiti State, Nigeria. The project’s primary focus was to instill in school pupils an understanding of climate change, its drivers, consequences, and most importantly, the potential solutions.
The ESSP strategic approach to education was noteworthy. Initially, a pre-test was administered to gauge the pupils’ existing knowledge about climate change. This baseline data served two purposes: to tailor the presentation to the students’ understanding level and to measure the effectiveness of the program later.
ESSP 2023 picture taken at St. Jonathan Memorial Nursery and Primary School, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State
The ESSP’s team then engaged the students with a presentation. A vital takeaway from the presentation was the understanding that while nature is vast and resilient, human actions in the recent past have accelerated environmental degradation. This calls for immediate introspection and corrective measures.
The subsequent video presentation served as a visual reinforcement of the concepts discussed. Visuals have a profound impact, and for the young students, it was a medium to truly grasp the urgency of the situation.
ESSP 2023 picture taken at AUD Pilot Nursery and Primary School, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State
The post-test that followed the presentation and video was not just a mere formality. It was a measure of the effectiveness of the teaching methods, the absorption capacity of the students, and the potential areas of improvement for future sessions.
ESSP 2023 picture taken @ St Fidelis Catholic Nursery and Primary School, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State
But perhaps the most heartening aspect of the entire program was the pupils’ proactive approach. Their questions were a reflection of their concern, curiosity, and eagerness to be a part of the solution. The ESSP team’s response was apt, underscoring the fact that change starts at the grassroots level. Today’s children, with the right guidance, can become tomorrow’s leaders in environmental conservation.
ESSP 2023 picture taken @ Basiri Community Nursery and Primary School, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State
In conclusion, as global communities rally against the threat of climate change, localized efforts like those of the TGED Foundation play a crucial role. They not only educate but also foster a sense of responsibility and commitment. For a safer, healthier planet, it’s imperative to sow the seeds of environmental consciousness early, and with endeavors like ESSP, the future looks promising.
ESSP 2023 picture taken @ Basiri Community Nursery and Primary School, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State
| PRIMARY SCHOOLS ATTENDED TO IN ADO EKITI METROPOLIS FOR THE ESSP PROJECT | DATE |
| CAC Community Nursery & Primary School | 20TH JUNE 2023 |
| Saint Jonathan Memorial Nursery & Primary School | 22ND JUNE 2023 |
| Saint Fidelis Catholic Nursery & Primary School | 22ND JUNE 2023 |
| AUD Pilot Nursery & Primary School | 26TH JUNE 2023 |
| Basiri Community Nursery & Primary School | 4TH JULY 2023 |