Event inspires young women to champion climate justice and sustainability
Tamale Girls Senior High School has emerged winner of an inter-school quiz competition organised by ActionAid Ghana in Tamale to deepen young people’s understanding of climate change and inspire proactive leadership in climate action.
The contest, held under the theme “Youth for Climate Action: Understanding Our Changing World,” brought together students from Tamale Girls SHS, Tamale Islamic Science SHS, and Dabokpa Technical Institute.
More than a competition, the event served as a platform to empower young women to become advocates for climate justice and sustainable living.
Youth at the Forefront of Climate Action
Speaking at the event, Mr. John Nkaw, Country Director of ActionAid Ghana, urged students to lead by example in safeguarding the environment, stressing that individual responsibility remains crucial in the fight against climate change.
“Until we become responsible in safeguarding and protecting the environment, future generations will not inherit a safe world,” he said, calling for an end to plastic waste pollution and indiscriminate littering.
Mrs. Beatrice Yanman Biije, Regional Programmes Manager of ActionAid Ghana, said the initiative formed part of ActionAid’s climate justice and financing campaign, aimed at mobilising young people, especially girls, to participate in national and global climate conversations.
She noted that the competition was designed not just to test knowledge but to ignite innovation and leadership among students.
“Your curiosity and courage to engage with these complex issues give us hope. You are the generation that will shape a sustainable and resilient world,” she told participants.
Partnership for Climate Education
Mr. Isaac Ouedraogo, Deputy Director of Finance at the Ghana Education Service (GES) in Sagnarigu, emphasised the need for synergy between local and international stakeholders to tackle climate challenges.
He highlighted areas such as sustainable agriculture, renewable energy transition, and climate education as key to achieving resilience, and commended ActionAid Ghana for “creating a space where education and activism meet.”
The competition attracted members of ActionAid’s Activista Movement, the Young Urban Women’s Movement, the Young Female Platform Alumna Network, and smallholder women farmers, reflecting a broad coalition for environmental advocacy.
Winners and Prizes
Tamale Girls SHS clinched the top spot, followed by Tamale Islamic Science SHS and Dabokpa Technical Institute in second and third places respectively.
Winners received assorted prizes including exercise books, mathematical sets, and cash awards — with Tamale Girls SHS taking home GH₵500 in addition to other educational materials.
The event reaffirmed ActionAid Ghana’s commitment to equipping the next generation with the knowledge, confidence, and passion to confront one of humanity’s greatest challenges — climate change.
