WORLD TEACHERS DAY 2024 CONFERENCE
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Written by Nweze Emmanuel Obinna
Ecosteward and Humanitarian Foundation in partnership with Ecocykle foundation, Sauvers Lead Initiative, Women and Girl Child Development Initiative and with support from HBCU Green Fund, held a Teachers climate conference in commemoration of the world teacher’s day at Primark International School Jikwoyi FCT Abuja. The conference which was to celebrate the incredible contributions of teachers worldwide, those who inspire, nurture, and guide our future generations. As well as build their capacity on climate change knowledge and motivate them to be champions of climate literacy, brought together teachers and students from different schools.
Mr Nweze Emmanuel, the Program Director for Ecosteward Foundation in his remarks stated that we face the pressing realities of climate change. The world looks to our educators to help prepare young minds for the challenges ahead. Climate education is no longer optional—it is essential. It is through education that we can raise awareness, foster critical thinking, and empower students to become responsible stewards of the environment.
Mr Nweze emphasized that teachers are at the heart of this transformation. They have the unique opportunity to mould young hearts and minds, to instil a deep respect for the planet, and to inspire
actionable solutions to climate challenges. By integrating climate science, sustainability practices, and eco-consciousness into their classrooms, teachers can empower the next generation to lead with responsibility, compassion, and innovation.
Pius OKO, the GreenFaith Africa Program Manager
Pius OKO, the GreenFaith Africa Program Manager, In his presentation remarked that on this World Teacher’s Day 2024, we honor the incredible contributions of teachers, who, in their roles as climate educators, are now at the forefront of one of the most critical challenges of our time—climate.
He highlighted that this year’s theme, “Teachers as Climate Educators,” reflects a powerful truth: teachers are the architects of our collective future. They hold the responsibility of equipping our youth with not only academic knowledge but also the values and skills to navigate the complexities of climate change. By doing so, teachers inspire young minds to recognize the importance of environmental stewardship and foster the courage and innovation necessary to drive sustainable solutions.
Mr. OKO further emphasized that, at GreenFaith, climate education is recognized as a crucial step in advancing climate justice, particularly in communities most vulnerable to the devastating impacts of climate change. By leading their students to embrace ecological responsibility, educators are shaping a generation of climate-conscious leaders dedicated to safeguarding our planet.
Miss Laureta Boniface, the co-founder Ecocykle Foundation in her presentation stated that this inaugural Teacher’s Climate Conference held in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja has made great strides in promoting climate education in Nigeria. The event, which brought together educators and students from various schools, geared a crucial session on Circular Economy and Climate Change led by Ecocykle.
Miss lauretta pointed out the importance of equipping Nigeria’s teachers and students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the pressing challenges of climate change through innovative approaches to sustainable living, including waste management, recycling, and eco-friendly items as a key strategy for mitigating and adapting to climate impacts.
The success of the event has prompted calls for similar initiatives to be adopted and implemented in other states across Nigeria exacerbating a culture of climate awareness among teachers and students she stated
The principal Primark International School, Sir Oko Agaji in his closing remark thanked the organizers stating that climate change is affecting every aspect our livelihood and there is need for more awareness even within the education sector. While thanking the organizers for the initiative, Mr Oko emphasized that as leaders in education, our influence extends far beyond the classroom. we have the power to cultivate an environmentally aware and resilient generation—one that is prepared not only to adapt to climate change but to lead the charge in addressing it. Together, we can build a future where sustainability and environmental responsibility are at the core of every community.
