C-Circle Research Foundation for Sustainable Health and Environment in collaboration with Climate and Sustainable Development Network, along with other partners, hosted an inter-school debate competition to commemorate World Environment Day (WED) 2024. The theme of the event was “Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience.”
The debate aimed to raise environmental consciousness among secondary school students in Abuja. As an annual event, it aligns with the commemoration of World Environment Day, aiming to inspire young minds to engage in discussions on crucial topics such as land restoration.
The event took place at Novare Mall, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja.
Dr. Chimere May Ohajinwa, the founder of the C-Circle Research Foundation for Sustainable Health and Environment and an expert in Environmental Toxicology and Public Health, highlighted the significance of the debate competition in promoting environmental awareness and climate action among the youth.
In her statement, she stated that debate competitions significantly broaden children’s knowledge on various topics. By choosing to participate in debate competitions, children are encouraged to value environmental care.
Moreover, debates enhance children’s public speaking, critical thinking, and research skills, and they foster teamwork, as winning requires collaboration.
Participating in debates teaches students how to effectively and respectfully express their opinions while considering other viewpoints. It also provides a platform for students to engage with current events, societal issues, and complex topics in a structured and constructive manner. “Debates open up minds,” she added.
She mentioned that ten schools were invited to participate, with nine ultimately engaging in vigorous discussions on the debate topics, aligning with the WED 2024 theme, “Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience.” This theme addresses climate change, a critical global issue that cannot be overlooked.
To further promote the value of environmental stewardship, organisations donated drought-resistant trees to the participating schools. These trees will be planted on school grounds and monitored by C-Circle Research, an affiliate of the C-Circle Foundation for Sustainable Health and Environment, ensuring that the lessons learned from the debate will continue to thrive and have a lasting impact.
World Environment Day, celebrated annually on June 5, is a major event dedicated to raising global awareness and promoting action for environmental protection. Backed by various NGOs, businesses, and government organizations, it serves as the UN’s principal day for environmental outreach.
By organising this debate competition, the C-Circle Research Foundation and its partners have made a substantial effort to educate and motivate the next generation to combat climate change and environmental degradation