Empowering Tomorrow: Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice Unites Global Youth for Change

The fourth Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice (NSSCJ) commenced with an international symposium on Climate Justice, drawing high-level dignitaries, government officials, diplomats, and hundreds of youths from 87 countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, and America. The symposium’s theme, “Igniting Youth Power for Enhanced Global Solidarity on Climate Justice,” set the stage for a pivotal event aimed at empowering the next generation of climate advocates.

Dr. Mithika Mwenda, Executive Director of the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance, emphasized the critical role of youth in the climate justice movement. He noted the significant interest from applicants as a positive indicator of the youth’s readiness to tackle climate issues. “This is the perfect time for the youth to step forward and advocate for Climate Justice,” Dr. Mwenda said, highlighting the importance of young voices in driving climate action across Africa and beyond.

Since its inception in 2020, NSSCJ has produced over 1500 alumni who have become influential climate advocates. These alumni have secured roles in prominent climate organizations such as the African Group of Negotiators, the Commonwealth, and the United Nations. The fourth cohort aims to further equip young climate advocates, activists, policymakers, and community leaders with the skills necessary to champion climate justice.

Dr. Beatrice Muganda Inyangala, Principal Secretary, State Department for Higher Education and Research, Ministry of Education, Kenya, commended the initiative for providing youth with a platform to engage in climate change dialogues. She stressed the essential role of education in fostering climate justice. “Education equips our young people with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to drive sustainable development and resilience,” Dr. Inyangala said. She described the Nairobi Summer School of Climate Justice as a “beacon of hope and a catalyst for change,” offering opportunities for learning, collaboration, and innovation.

Ayele Kabede, Programme Manager for SIDA, Regional Office, Africa, praised the youth attendees and underscored the importance of building their capacity in climate justice. He highlighted the focus of the Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA) on fostering knowledge and capacity in climate justice and climate change. “The future belongs to the young generation,” Kabede said, emphasizing that decisions affecting the future should be made by and for the youth. He noted that discussions during the symposium would include preparations for COP29, set to take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, focusing on advancing the goals of the UNFCCC and the Paris Agreement.

The Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice (NSSCJ) is an intergenerational platform bringing together scholar-activists, community-based scholars, and climate justice advocates from the Global South and North. It provides a space for participants to share experiences, exchange perspectives, and collaboratively explore equitable and inclusive pathways to a low-carbon, climate-resilient future.

The program places a strong emphasis on Climate Justice (CJ), focusing on the ethical dimensions of global warming, human rights, and Just Transitions. Through practical modules, participants are encouraged to ignite grassroots organizing and community action, fostering a global movement toward climate resilience and justice.

As the fourth cohort embarks on this transformative journey, the Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice continues to inspire and empower the youth to become leading voices in the fight for a sustainable and equitable future.

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