By Ahone Heidi
The Fourth International Symposium on Climate Justice opened at Chuka University, Nairobi Summer School June 25, 2024.
It brought together attendees from all over Africa engaging in discussions ahead of the 2024 two-week intensive training . The event marked the official opening of the fourth Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice (NSSCJ), under the theme “Igniting Youth Power for Enhanced Global Solidarity on Climate Justice.”
Dr. Mithika Mwenda, the Executive Director of the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA), noted it was time for the youths to step forward, take over the relay to advocate for climate justice.
Dr MITHIKA expressed satisfaction on the plethora of applications received from youths globally this year indicative of the willingness of youths to stand to the challenge in addressing climate change issues in Africa in particular and the world at large.
It should be noted that the Nairobi Summer School started on 21st August 2021 at the Kenyatta University. The programme is set to target the talented and creative youths with an interest in climate change action.
According to PACJA, the aims of the program are targeted at closing a gap that has been existent in the global south.
Experts appreciated the opportunity given to youths to improve their knowledge in climate change and the environment.
Dr Beatrice Muganda Inyangala, Principal Secretary, State Department for Higher Education and Research, Ministry of Education, Kenya, applauded the opportunity offered for youth to learn about climate change and related dialogues highlighting the importance of education in combating climate change and fostering climate justice.
“ Education plays a pivotal role in the fight against climate change and empowring young people with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to drive sustainable development and resilience is capital,” said Dr. Inyangala.
One of the participants Justus Mwakavi remarks that Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice presents an opportunity for the youth to amplify their voices against Climate injustices adversely affecting the vulnerable communities.
“ The training empowers youths to be able to add their voices in the fight against climate change. I am priviledged to be part of the 2024 cohort of trainees,” Justus said.
According to PACJA the African context in handling matters of climate change and environmental issues must include the indigenous people, women, the youth, pastoralists communities and other marginalized communities who are experiencing the effects of climate change.
Governments must Prioritize injecting resources to restore forests, replace aging trees and ensure there’s proper utilization of resources allocated.
“ A call to ensure that there is promotion of creative voices, social and scientific innovations that tackle a myriad of issues that revolve in and around environmental issues and climate change are the main objectives of the summer school,” PACJA says.
