The pilot programme, which kicked off at Yadudu Memorial Academy, is designed to educate students on climate change, recycling and the circular economy, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, innovation, and environmental leadership.
Speaking during the maiden session, the Community Manager of Cleanwave Recycling Nigeria Ltd, Hafsat Adamu, said the initiative was conceived to educate young people on environmental sustainability, waste management, and the recycling economy.
She said the session exposed students to how climate change affects the environment, health, and daily life, and how such effects could be prevented or mitigated.
Adamu said the organisation plans to establish green clubs in schools to sustain engagement with students and involve them in ongoing recycling and sustainability efforts.
She disclosed that the programme would initially cover 10 schools in Kano State, comprising five private and five public schools, with Yaduda Memorial Academy as the first, before the initiative is expanded to other schools across the state.
The Class Teacher of GSS1 and leader of the Green Habitat Hub, Abubakar Zakaria, said the initiative would improve sanitation practices in the school by discouraging students from cutting down trees and plucking tree branches, a habit he said was common among pupils.
He said students who participated in the pilot session would be mandated to step down the training to their colleagues who were absent, to ensure the knowledge reaches the entire school community.
Some pupils who spoke on their experience said the training had broadened their understanding of environmental issues.
Muhammad Auwal, a Primary 5 pupil, said he learnt about waste management and the circular economy, adding that the training equipped him with skills on how to properly sort waste and convert it into useful products.
Also speaking, Aisha Na’aba of JSS1 said she learnt how to turn plastic waste into decorative items such as chairs and tables. She said she would step down the training to her siblings and friends at home to promote proper waste management practices.
The programme aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals on quality education, sustainable cities and communities, responsible consumption and production, climate action, and partnerships for the goals.
