Prepared by: Oko Moses ThankGod, Ohoro Peter Oyi and members of the Campus Environmental Action Volunteers (CEAV)
In a remarkable demonstration of youth leadership and environmental responsibility, students of the University of Calabar came together to champion climate justice through a Climate Justice Advocacy Campaign and Post-Matriculation Campus Clean-Up Exercise held immediately after the institution’s 2025/2026 matriculation ceremony.
The initiative, led by members of the Campus Environmental Action Volunteers (CEAV) under the auspice of Ecosteward and Humanitarian Foundation team under the coordination of climate advocate Oko Moses ThankGod, was designed to engage newly admitted students on the importance of environmental stewardship while inspiring practical action toward creating a cleaner and more sustainable campus.
The programme began during the matriculation ceremony with a climate justice advocacy campaign that reached students, parents, guardians, and members of the university community. Volunteers used the opportunity to educate participants on the relationship between climate change, environmental degradation, waste pollution, and sustainable living.
The advocacy emphasized that climate justice is not only a global conversation but also a local responsibility. Participants were encouraged to adopt environmentally responsible behaviors, including proper waste disposal, reduction of single-use plastics, and active participation in community-driven environmental initiatives.
Speaking during the awareness campaign, volunteers highlighted the role of young people as catalysts for change and stressed the importance of integrating environmental responsibility into everyday decision-making.
Following the matriculation activities, the campaign transitioned from awareness creation to direct environmental action as student volunteers mobilized across strategic locations within the university for a coordinated clean-up exercise.
Armed with determination and a shared commitment to environmental sustainability, volunteers cleaned walkways, open spaces, lecture theatre surroundings, green areas, and other high-traffic locations impacted by the influx of visitors during the matriculation ceremony.
The exercise attracted participation from students across various faculties and departments, demonstrating a collective commitment to protecting the university environment and promoting a culture of cleanliness and civic responsibility.
Beyond the physical removal of waste, the clean-up exercise served as a powerful statement that environmental sustainability requires active participation from all members of society. By taking ownership of their surroundings, the volunteers demonstrated that meaningful climate action can begin with simple, practical steps at the community level.
The initiative also provided an opportunity to strengthen environmental consciousness among students and reinforce the message that individual actions, when combined, can generate significant positive impact.
Participants expressed enthusiasm about the exercise and called for the institutionalization of regular environmental sanitation and climate awareness activities within the university. Many noted that the programme not only improved the appearance of the campus but also inspired a renewed sense of responsibility toward environmental protection.
The Climate Justice Advocacy and Post-Matriculation Campus Clean-Up Exercise aligns with broader global efforts to advance climate action, responsible consumption, environmental conservation, and sustainable development. It further demonstrates the growing role of youth-led initiatives in addressing environmental challenges and driving positive change within communities.
As universities continue to serve as centres for learning, innovation, and leadership development, initiatives such as this highlight the importance of empowering students to become active contributors to sustainability solutions.
The success of the programme stands as a testament to the power of collective action and serves as an inspiring reminder that every effort toward environmental protection contributes to building a healthier and more resilient future.
The Campus Environmental Action Volunteers (CEAV) under the auspice of Ecosteward Foundation remain committed to promoting climate justice, environmental education, and community-led sustainability initiatives within and beyond the University of Calabar.
Through advocacy, volunteerism, and practical action, the group hopes to inspire more young people to become environmental champions and contribute meaningfully to the global movement for a sustainable future.
A Clean Campus Today, A Greener Future Tomorrow.
