The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) in Ghana’s South Tongu District embarked on a crucial community engagement initiative, focusing on raising awareness about climate action and environmental responsibility. Targeting apprentices at the Dabala Lorry Park, the program sought to instill a sense of civic duty and promote practical steps towards mitigating climate change. This outreach, supported by Fidelity Bank Ghana, aligns with the global theme for World Environment Day 2025, “Protecting Our Environment: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle,” and emphasizes the importance of individual and collective action in safeguarding the environment for present and future generations.
Mr. Seth Fiagorme, the District Director for South Tongu, highlighted the constitutional mandate enshrined in Article 41(k), which calls upon every citizen to protect and preserve the environment. He underscored the detrimental consequences of irresponsible environmental practices, such as indiscriminate plastic waste disposal, deforestation, and inadequate sanitation. These practices not only contribute to environmental degradation but also pose significant health risks to communities. Mr. Fiagorme emphasized the pivotal role that apprentices and young people play in driving Ghana’s climate response, recognizing their potential as agents of change in their communities.
The Climate Action Awareness project, implemented across selected districts in Ghana, serves as a catalyst for promoting environmental consciousness at the grassroots level. It equips individuals with the knowledge and tools necessary to adopt environmentally friendly practices, particularly focusing on the 3Rs – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – as a practical approach to waste management. By empowering individuals to take ownership of their environmental footprint, the project aims to foster a sense of collective responsibility in achieving Ghana’s climate goals and contributing to the broader Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The engagement at Dabala Lorry Park served as a platform to disseminate vital information and encourage active participation in environmental protection. The NCCE emphasized the importance of individual actions, such as proper waste segregation, recycling initiatives, and responsible consumption, in mitigating the impact of climate change. The session also extended an invitation to all participants to join a major cleanup exercise scheduled for September 24, 2025, at the Dabala Market. This hands-on activity aims to demonstrate the collective power of community involvement in creating a cleaner and healthier environment.
The outreach program is particularly significant given its focus on apprentices and informal sector workers, who often lack access to formal environmental education. By engaging this demographic, the NCCE aims to bridge the information gap and empower these individuals to become environmental stewards within their communities. This approach recognizes the importance of reaching diverse groups within society to ensure widespread adoption of sustainable practices and create a more environmentally conscious citizenry.
The collaboration between the NCCE and Fidelity Bank Ghana demonstrates the growing recognition of the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing climate change. By pooling resources and expertise, such collaborations can amplify the impact of awareness campaigns and facilitate the implementation of practical solutions. The initiative also underscores the vital role of education and community engagement in driving behavioral change and fostering a sense of collective responsibility towards environmental protection. The success of Ghana’s climate action efforts hinges on the active participation of all stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector organizations, civil society, and individuals, in adopting sustainable practices and promoting environmental stewardship at all levels. The NCCE’s outreach program serves as a commendable example of how targeted interventions can empower communities to become active participants in the fight against climate change and build a more sustainable future for all.
