In northern Ghana, climate challenges like violent storms and unpredictable rainfall are becoming more common. However, a school in the Wa Municipality showcases how local efforts can build climate resilience. This school, the T.I. Ahmadiyya Cluster of Schools, has turned a simple tree-planting project into a successful long-term strategy for protecting the environment and improving education.
What started as a small initiative by a few teachers grew into a culture embraced by generations. Originally opened in the 1970s, the school experienced significant damage from a strong windstorm in the early 1980s. This incident led to an important decision: every student would plant and care for a tree. This commitment aimed to create a buffer against future storms.
Former student Shamsuddin Salih shared that tree planting was a requirement. Each child nurtured their tree throughout their time at the school, teaching them environmental responsibility. Over time, a thick canopy of trees formed, reducing wind speed and creating a cooler and safer learning environment.
Today, visitors are greeted by a lush landscape that wraps around the school. This green space not only protects the school from harsh weather but also enhances the overall atmosphere, proving that nature can offer practical solutions in education.
The initiative received support from dedicated educators, including past heads like Mr. Abass Ishahaku and Mr. Yahaya Bashirudeen. Their leadership made tree planting an ongoing practice rather than a one-time event.
The Acting Upper West Regional Director of Education, Jonathan Kpierakoh, praised the school’s efforts as an effective method for reducing climate risks. He encourages other schools and households to adopt similar tree-planting strategies. Data show that these trees improve learning conditions and even provided safe spaces during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, the school has benefited economically. Fruit trees, especially cashew, have created income that funded new classrooms, linking climate action directly to educational improvements. The school’s green environment has earned it several national and international awards, according to Head Teacher Ibrahim Fauzy Jibraeel.
However, challenges persist. Issues such as bush burning and damage from roaming cattle put the school’s tree plantation efforts at risk. This highlights the need for stronger community protection strategies to ensure these climate benefits continue.
The experience of T.I. Ahmadiyya proves that simple, local initiatives can effectively combat climate challenges. As climate impacts increase, this school stands as a powerful example that resilience can start with something as straightforward as planting a tree. Experts agree: grassroots action can lead to significant social and economic rewards.
This story was brought to you by JoyNews, CDKN Ghana, and the University of Ghana Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability Studies, with funding from the CLARE R4I Opportunities Fund.
