Press release- NSSCJ Cohort 5 International Symposium

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – 25 August 2025: The Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA), in partnership with Addis Ababa University, hosted the Fifth International Symposium on Climate Change, marking the official opening of the Fifth Cohort of the Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice (NSSCJ).

Held under the theme “Aspiring a Livable Future: Youth-led Transformation in the Poly-crisis Era”, the symposium was graced by Her Excellency Dr. Fitsum Assefa, Minister of Planning and Development of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, alongside diplomats, development partners, civil society, academia, and youth representatives.

Africa continues to bear the brunt of the adverse impacts of climate change, despite contributing only 4% of global emissions. Climate-related hazards are costing African economies an estimated 2–5% of GDP annually. While collective climate action is urgently needed, the symposium emphasized the critical role of African youth in shaping innovative solutions for the continent amid the escalating climate crisis.

In her keynote address, H.E. Dr. Fitsum Assefa reminded participants that a livable future is possible if the continent remains focused and proactive. She urged Africa to advocate for itself rather than waiting for external actors to act in its interest:

“We will not sit back and wait for the world to respond — we shall act, and act now. Africa must take its rightful place in global finance, in international architecture, and across all sectors. A livable future is possible if we act with purpose and courage.”

She further highlighted the unique role of young people in driving the transformation:

“We know strategies and programmes alone are not enough. It is the creativity, passion, and courage of young people that will carry us forward. The Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice is a powerful testament to this truth.”

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