Chinedum Treasure
Founding Director, Green Environment and Climate Change Initiative, (GRENCHI), Mmachukwu Obimdike, says collective action is critical to the attainment of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
Obimdike stated this at a one-day hybrid roundtable on sustainable food systems organized in Awka, Anambra State.
The event organized by the Sahelian Institute for Bamboo Research and Entrepreneurship Development (SIBRED) Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka in conjunction with Climate Smart Agriculture Youth Network Global, (GCSAYN), focused on the role of bamboo in climate-smart agriculture.
GRENCHI Founder Director, who was represented by Divine Chinemerem, maintained that there is a fundamental correlation between planetary sustainability and food systems transformation.
“Considering the auspicious theme “Growing Together,” I am reminded of the power of collective action in realizing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Obimdike said the statistics are pointing at the huge contribution of agriculture to global greenhouse emission, hence the need for sustainable system of food production.
“IPCC 2019 report stated that agriculture accounts for approximately 21 – 37% of global greenhouse gas emissions, while simultaneously being vulnerable to climate change impacts.
She however observed that all hope is not lost the current challenges still present tremendous opportunities.
“The focal emphasis on internships goes beyond pedagogical acquisition to the gaining of skills that drives action.
“As noted by sustainability experts, creating sustainable food systems requires both environmental consideration and social responsibility.
She noted that through internship programs, many young people around the world have gained enormous knowledge to transform the food system
She charged the newly- inducted interns to contribute their quota towards finding solution to the threat posed by climate change to the planet.
“This is your chance to think boldly and validate your dreams. Situating this program within UNIZIK ensures efficacious implementation of sustainable methodologies by young Nigerians”.
“Our organization through various programs executed in secondary educational institutions and local communities has seen the transformative power of experiential learning in sustainability education.
“Our inaugural Climate Bootcamp program, launched in 2023, has yielded extraordinary outcomes, which shows the singular value of hands-on pedagogical approaches.
She viewed combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience as a sure way to satisfy the need of the world. “That is bold innovation. We laud this program and root for you as you seek your path.
“I wish to remind you that “There’s no possible limitation to your dreams except that which you create for yourself,” Obimdike concluded.
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