Youths From 52 Abuja Schools Drive Climate Action at National Student Climate Summit

Four Abuja secondary schools shone brighter than others with their innovative products to tackle the challenges of climate change, green energy and clean technology adaptation at the Nigerian Student Climate Summit held at the Yaradua Centre to commemorate the World Environment Day on 6 June 2024.

Fifty-two schools and several enthusiastic and passionate young innovators participated in the summit. Twenty-one schools entered the Clean Tech Innovation Challenge.

Panellists adjudged the entries outstanding and promising.

Clean Technology Hub organised this ground-breaking event to amplify Nigerian students' voices and empower them to tackle environmental challenges head-on.  The students came prepared and showcased their products and ideas. Four schools won prizes.

The CleanTech Innovation Challenge winners displayed projects ranging from waste-to-wealth initiatives and recycling solutions to renewable energy and energy efficiency concepts, climate-smart agriculture, climate robotics, and Internet of Things (IoT) applications.

Government Secondary School, Kubwa, emerged with its “Future Smart City Web." Government Science Technical College, Garki, placed second in "Production of biogas and organic fertiliser from bio-waste materials." Nigerian Tulip International Girls College, Wuse 2, was third with its “Green City,” while Springhall British School, Maitama, rounded out the winners with its “Energy efficiency IOT home device."

Twenty-one (21) schools presented their innovative concepts and prototypes for local climate solutions.

The Students Climate Summit enabled the young innovators to showcase their clean technology innovations and engage in critical discussions surrounding the environment and the global shift towards net-zero emissions. The event was a testament to the creativity and determination of Nigerian youth.

Panel discussions highlighted the diverse ways young people from various fields contribute to climate policy and environmental justice. The youth showcased their innovative approaches and unwavering commitment to addressing climate change, from architecture and law to software engineering and mathematical modelling

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Esteemed guests graced the event, including government dignitaries, sponsors, partners, judges, and industry representatives. Representatives from the Federal Ministries of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Environment, and the Embassy of Sweden underscored the event's significance in driving climate action and fostering youth engagement

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Climate arts and stage performances added a creative dimension to the event, with students using drama, dance, poetry, and pitches to educate participants on the need for environmental preservation and climate justice. The presentations culminated in a mind-blowing performance by GSS Gwagwalada, leaving a lasting impression on attendees.

As the world grapples with the urgent challenge of climate change, the Nigerian Student Climate Summit showcased the immense potential of Nigerian youth to spearhead innovative solutions. The summit catalysed a new generation of environmental stewards poised to shape a more sustainable future for Nigeria and beyond by providing a platform for collaboration, capacity building, and practical innovation.