On October 5, 2024, the world came together to celebrate World Teachers’ Day under the theme, “Valuing Teachers’ Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education.” This annual event, observed since 1994, emphasizes the crucial role of teachers in shaping education systems and nurturing future generations. The 2024 theme highlighted the importance of empowering teachers by actively involving them in the creation of educational policies and practices.
This year’s celebration was particularly special, as it marked the launch of the Teachers4Climate initiative by the Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP) in collaboration with Suavers Lead Initiative and 350 Africa. This groundbreaking initiative aims to integrate climate education into schools by equipping teachers with the knowledge and tools needed to inspire climate-conscious students. The initiative seeks to raise a generation of champions committed to building a climate-resilient future while celebrating the invaluable contributions of teachers.
During the event, 40 teachers who had undergone training as environmental mentors shared their experiences in managing Eco-Clubs in their respective schools. The Eco-Clubs serve as unique platforms within secondary schools where students can learn about climate change and actively engage in environmental stewardship. The teachers recounted their personal journeys, revealing their motivations for choosing the teaching profession—from a passion for imparting knowledge to a deep commitment to mentoring the next generation especially for resilience.
Dr. Michael David, Executive Director of GIFSEP, congratulated the teachers on their unwavering dedication to sustaining the Eco-Clubs since their inception in 2017. He commended their efforts, saying:
“GIFSEP will continue to support teachers and schools that develop initiatives driving environmental protection. Your advocacy and leadership are vital in addressing global challenges like climate change.”
The Teachers4Climate initiative will continue to enhance the capacities of teachers, understanding their roles as agents of change, to address environmental issues. The initiative will empower educators to lead the way in fostering climate awareness and action among students especially through innovative programs like Eco-Clubs. By this, teachers are not only educating students but also equipping them with critical skills to tackle pressing global issues such as climate change.