Green Scholars Programme (GSP), an initiative aimed at empowering young people to contribute to climate action and environmental sustainability has been launched in Accra.

The GSP is an initiative of the Pan African Centre for Climate Policy (PACCP), Drasi Africa, Non-governmental organisations committed to environmental sustainability.

The launch held in Accra on Wednesday brought together students of St. Thomas Aquinas Senior High School and Presbyterian Senior High School-La and stakeholders to discuss solutions to environmental challenges.

Speaking at the launch, the Manager of Dissi Africa, Deborah Nissi Diafo, said the initiative sought to build a network of young leaders committed to climate action. She noted that climate change remained one of the most pressing environmental issues globally, affecting vulnerable communities, especially the youth.

The youth have been urged to take active role in the fight against climate change.

He said collaboration between institutions in Ghana and countries such as Canada would help build resilience strategies and promote policy dialogue.

Rev. Dr Frimpong said that the initiative would create awareness and provide a platform for collective action among students. He said engaging the youth in environmental education and climate discussions was crucial in the fight against climate change, that such platforms encouraged students to take advantage of opportunities to contribute meaningfully to environmental protection.

The programme will include a series of dialogues over the next few months, focusing on climate change and biodiversity laws.

Some of the students who spoke to The Ghanaian Times expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to participate in programme.

A Deputy Mining Director at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr Patrick Essien, emphasised the need to equip young people with knowledge and skills to address environmental issues. He explained that sustainability efforts must go beyond institutions and involve young people who will shape the future.

A representative of PACCP, Reverend Dr Kwame Frimpong, said partnerships was crucial in tackling climate change.