In a significant stride towards environmental education and sustainable development, The Women Environmental Education and Sustainable Development Foundation (WEESDev) launched a transformative project on Tuesday, the 21st of November 2023. Titled “Climate Literacy, Mitigation, and Justice with Pupils and Students Aged 6 to 12, Through Arts and Audio-Visual,” the initiative unfolded at Catholic School Buea Town, specifically at Lower Farms, targeting approximately 200 pupils.
Empowering Tomorrow’s Stewards
The primary objectives of this groundbreaking project were multifaceted. WEESDev aimed to impart climate literacy through engaging mediums such as arts and audio-visuals. This involved the use of pictures, videos, and drawings to vividly illustrate the causes, effects, mitigation, and adaptation strategies related to climate change.
Creative Engagement for Eco-Conscious Minds
The project further endeavored to involve children in eco-friendly activities, including the creation of eco-clubs and the appointment of young green ambassadors. The kids actively participated in tree planting and flower gardening, emphasizing the significance of trees and flowers in fostering a sustainable environment.
Inclusivity as a Guiding Principle
WEESDev’s commitment to inclusivity was evident in the project’s scope, extending its reach to pupils with disabilities, accompanied children, and internally displaced children. The foundation recognized that children, regardless of their circumstances, represent the next generation of innovators and critical thinkers.
Grooming Future Leaders to Combat Climate Crisis
With the United Nations and various global organizations sounding the alarm on the “code red for humanity” in relation to climate crises, mitigation, and adaptation, WEESDev’s project takes on added significance. By instilling a sense of responsibility for the Earth in young minds, the foundation is actively contributing to the grooming of a future generation well-equipped to tackle the challenges of the climate crisis.
Holistic Approach: Carbon Sequestration and Environmental Health
A key focus of the project was on carbon sequestration and environmental health. WEESDev emphasized the importance of medical trees such as moringa and flood-control trees like Bohemia, sandboxes, and Delonix regia (commonly known as flamboyant). This approach not only contributes to the protection of schools against recurring floods but also addresses the urgent need for sustainable practices in the face of unpredictable and heavy rainfall.
Flower Gardening for Beauty and Carbon Sequestration
Highlighting the aesthetic and environmental benefits of flower gardening, WEESDev underscored its role in carbon sequestration. By showcasing the dual purpose of flowers—adding beauty to the environment while actively contributing to carbon capture—the project demonstrated a holistic approach to environmental sustainability.
In a world where immediate action is called for to combat climate crises, WEESDev’s initiative stands as a beacon, actively shaping the future by empowering the younger generation to be guardians of the planet.
