AYEYI Climate Leadership Summit Equips 46 Student Leaders to Champion Environmental Sustainability

Kpassa, Oti Region – Forty-six student leaders from Kpassa Senior High Technical School have been inaugurated as AYEYI Climate Ambassadors following the successful organisation of the AYEYI Climate Leadership Summit 2026 by Ayeyi Impact Foundation.

Held on Saturday, 18 July 2026, under the theme "Empowering Young Climate Leaders for Sustainable Communities and Environmental Action," the summit sought to equip young people with the knowledge, leadership skills, and practical tools needed to respond to climate change and environmental challenges within their schools and communities.

The programme brought together experts in environmental health, climate change, and youth leadership to educate participants on the causes and effects of climate change, sustainable environmental practices, sanitation, and the critical role young people can play in protecting the environment.

The first presentation was delivered by Mr. Nsoh Kojo, District Environmental Health Officer for Nkwanta North District, who educated participants on environmental sanitation, waste management, and public health. He explained how poor waste disposal creates breeding grounds for disease-causing organisms and encouraged students to promote proper household sanitation, safe waste disposal, and the construction and use of household toilets. He also addressed the dangers of open defecation and urged participants to become advocates for improved sanitation within their homes and communities.

The second presentation was delivered by Mr. Mbalibo O. Joseph, an educator and climate advocate, who introduced students to the science of climate change, its causes, and its growing impact on Ghana and local communities. He encouraged participants to take practical climate actions, including tree planting, proper waste management, recycling, water conservation, and environmental education.

The final session was facilitated by Tsekpokumah Richard, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Ayeyi Impact Foundation, Climate Advocate, Published Environmental Writer, and Oti Regional Chairperson of the United Nations Youth Association Ghana. He challenged participants to view leadership as responsibility and service rather than position or title. He encouraged students to become climate leaders by influencing positive environmental behaviour, organising community initiatives, and inspiring others through action.

A major highlight of the summit was the administration of the Climate Action Pledge, during which participants publicly committed themselves to protecting the environment, promoting sustainable practices, reducing pollution, planting trees, supporting recycling initiatives, and educating others about climate change.

To ensure that the training results in long-term impact, the newly inaugurated Climate Ambassadors were organised into three action groups focusing on climate advocacy, biodegradable waste recycling, and non-biodegradable waste upcycling. Each group developed an action plan to guide its activities within the school and the surrounding community.

According to the organisers, Ayeyi Impact Foundation will continue to mentor and support the student ambassadors by appointing a coordinator to oversee the implementation of the groups' activities and monitor their progress.

Speaking after the programme, the organisers expressed appreciation to the management of Kpassa Senior High Technical School, particularly Mr. Gakpe and Miss Fianu Georgina, for their support in ensuring the successful organisation of the summit.

The organisers described the summit as the beginning of a long-term investment in youth-led climate action, expressing confidence that the ambassadors would become agents of positive environmental change within their school and beyond.

As climate change continues to threaten livelihoods, agriculture, biodiversity, and public health, initiatives that empower young people to take practical action are increasingly becoming an essential part of building resilient and sustainable communities.