The list of schools set to compete in the Green Schools Climate Change National Debate Championship is now complete. This exciting competition will take place in August, following a successful round of regional qualifiers.
In Kampala Metropolitan, Mengo Senior School stood out as the regional champion, earning a spot alongside Nabisunsa Girls School and Kitante Hill School. They will join 27 other schools that qualified earlier. Notably, Sacred Heart Secondary School, last year’s champion, is absent this time around.
The debate is a key component of the Green Schools Initiative, an effort by Vision Group, the Food and Agriculture Organization, and the Embassy of Sweden in Uganda. This initiative aims to raise awareness about climate change and explore solutions. Adam Kahsai-Rudebeck from the Embassy attended the qualifiers and noted the enthusiasm and level of competition among the students.
Across Uganda, schools are actively participating. In the Karamoja region, Lolachat Seed School took the top spot, while Arua Public School excelled in West Nile. The northern region saw Comboni College and Lango College earn their places in the national championship. Meanwhile, Nabumali High School and Holy Cross Lake View School shone in Bugisu/Bukedi and Busoga regions, respectively.
Sidney Miria, the project coordinator for the initiative, praised the improvement in debate quality compared to last year. He emphasized that climate change is an urgent issue and everyone has a role to play. According to the World Meteorological Organization, 2022 was one of the hottest years on record, a stark reminder of the climate crisis we face.
Debates not only foster critical thinking but also help young people understand environmental issues. Tony Achidria from the National Environment Management Authority highlighted how such discussions can inspire students to support sustainable practices. Dr. Emmanuel Zziwa from the FAO echoed these sentiments, urging young people to advocate for their rights to a better environment.
As preparation for the national championship continues, there’s a growing interest in tackling climate challenges through innovative ideas. Adam Kahsai-Rudebeck mentioned that this year’s theme revolves around solving environmental issues, showcasing the potential of students to drive positive change.
The Green Schools Initiative is already making waves. It encourages schools to engage in eco-friendly practices and brings climate dialogues into public discourse. The enthusiasm shown by students and schools illustrates a promising future for environmental advocacy in Uganda, emphasizing the notion that every contribution counts.
In the spirit of the competition, project manager John Eremu reminds all participants that every school is a winner for being part of this noble cause. This inclusive mindset is vital for fostering a culture of learning and collaboration among young leaders.
As we look forward to the championship in August, the insights and experiences gained from these debates will surely pave the way for a new generation of climate-conscious advocates.
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Green Schools, Climate Change, National Debate Championship, Regional qualifiers, Schools, Schools ready for climate change debate
