By JOHN ONAH, Abuja –
As the world celebrates this year International Youth Day (IYD), a Non Governmental Organisation, Helpline Foundation for the Needy Abuja, has called on the youth to invest in education and training that focuses on green skills.
The founder of the foundation, Dr. Jumai Ahmadu, made this call in Abuja while addressing a section of the media as part of activities to mark the 2023 IYD.
The International Youth Day is commemorated every year on 12 August, bringing youth issues to the attention of the international community and celebrating the potential of youth as partners in today’s global society.
She noted that by acquiring these green skills, the youths could contribute to finding innovative solutions to the pressing environmental challenges confronting the planet.
Ahmadu stressed that this year’s theme: “Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World,” highlights the importance of equipping young people with the knowledge and skills needed to build a more environmentally conscious and sustainable world.
According to her; “As the custodians of tomorrow, you have the power to make a profound impact on the health of our planet. It is now more important than ever before to invest in education and training that focuses on green skills, such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, waste management, conservation, and eco-friendly technologies”.
She, therefore, tasked the youth to envision a world where clean energy sources replace fossil fuels, where sustainable agriculture practices feed the growing population, and where waste is reduced, reused, and recycled.
“I encourage you to take charge of your own learning and seek out opportunities that allow you to develop these essential green skills. Embrace sustainability as a way of life and incorporate eco-friendly practices into your daily routines.
“Choose renewable energy sources, reduce your carbon footprint, and advocate for sustainable practices within your communities,” she affirmed.
Ahmadu, however, acknowledged that the journey to a sustainable world does not rest solely on the youth’s shoulders, just as she advocated for collective action for achieving lasting change.
“Engage with your peers, community leaders, critical stakeholders, organizations working towards sustainability”, she said.
“Unite your voices to demand policies and initiatives that prioritize environmental conservation, social equity, and economic viability”.
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