ActionAid Ghana, an international NGO, has held an inter-school quiz competition for three Senior High Schools (SHS) in the Tamale Metropolis as part of its campaign to promote climate justice and financing.
The participating schools were Tamale Girls SHS, Dabokpa Technical Institute, and Tamale Islamic Science SHS.
The competition, held on the theme: “Youth for Climate Action: Understanding Our Changing World”, sought to engage young girls in the conversation on climate change and inspire them to take leadership roles in addressing environmental challenges.
It brought together members of ActionAid’s Activista Movement, the Young Urban Women’s Movement, the Young Female Platform Alumna Network, and representatives of smallholder women farmers.
Mr John Nkaw, Country Director of ActionAid Ghana, speaking during the competition in Tamale, advised students to avoid practices that polluted the environment, especially disposal of plastic waste, and to take the lead in keeping their surroundings clean.
He emphasised the importance of environmental responsibility, saying “Until we become responsible in safeguarding and protecting the environment, future generations will not inherit a safe world.”
Mrs Beatrice Yanman Biije, Regional Programmes Manager for ActionAid Ghana, said the quiz competition was not just a test of knowledge but a platform to inspire awareness, innovation, and leadership amongst young people.
She emphasised that “To all students gathered here, your curiosity, commitment, and courage to engage with these complex issues give us hope. You’re the generation that will shape a more sustainable and resilient world.”
She underscored urgent need for collective climate action, saying “Climate change is no longer a distant threat, it is a present reality affecting our communities and the environment.”
Mr Isaac Ouedraogo, Deputy Director of Finance, Ghana Education Service (GES), at Sagnarigu Municipal Directorate of Education, touched on the need to combine international and local efforts to address climate change.
He highlighted key actions such as sustainable agriculture, renewable energy transition, coastal and urban resilience, and policy and education, commending ActionAid Ghana and its partners for their commitment to educating schools and communities on climate issues.
After the keenly contested quiz, Tamale Girls SHS won the first position, followed by Tamale Islamic Science SHS Dabokpa Technical Institute took the third position.
They were presented prizes, with Tamale Girls SHS receiving seven packs of exercise books, three notebooks, three mathematical sets, pens, and a cash prize of GH₵500, Tamale Islamic Science SHS received five packs of exercise books, three notebooks, three mathematical sets, and pens, while Dabokpa Technical Institute, received three packs of exercise books, three notebooks, three mathematical sets, and pens.
