The Enugu State Advisor on Climate Change and Sustainable Development, Prof. Chukwumerije Okereke, has initiated a youth essay competition to raise awareness about climate change in the state.
In a statement on Monday, Okereke said the essay was an initiative in line with Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah’s vision to enhance climate education in the state.
He stated that there were ongoing talks with two international donors to secure funding for various climate awareness projects, including the development of a climate policy and action plan for the state, one of which is the MBAH-CEITI campaign.
The students are expected to write an essay on “What measures can Enugu State take to address climate change while also promoting economic growth, and what role can the youth play in this process?”.
According to Okereke, the competition began accepting entries on July 1 and will close on July 31, 2024.
He noted his office was developing more climate change public awareness projects, including campaigns like the Enugu State tree planting and urban greening campaign, the Enugu Clean Cooking Initiative, and the Enugu Youth Technical Empowerment programme.
“The competition will present a valuable opportunity for young individuals to take the lead and drive climate action in the state. They can achieve this by proposing measures to combat climate change while fostering economic growth,” the senior adviser to the Enugu State governor said.
He said there were high expectations of eligible participants, young adults from Enugu State and those living in Enugu State between 18 and 35 years, to send high-quality submissions.
According to the don, climate change remains an existential threat to human existence, adding that young people have a crucial role in safeguarding the environment.
Okereke announced that the winner of the maiden edition of the essay competition would get a cash reward of N100,000, the second position would go with N75,000 and the third position would go home with N50,000.
He stated that the top three essays would be announced during a hybrid event on August 30, 2024.
