By Ibrahim Adamu, Kaduna
In a continued effort to promote a cleaner and safer environment, Atlanticare Support Initiative (ASI), a non-governmental organization, took its awareness and youth engagement campaign to Federal Government College (FGC) Malali, Kaduna, as part of the United Nations’ World Cleanup Day celebrated on September 20.
The program, themed "Tackling Urban and Marine Wastes for a Sustainable Future," targeted students from Junior Secondary School II to Senior Secondary School III, educating them on the principles and practices of waste management through both theoretical and practical sessions. The goal was to inspire students to actively participate in creating a cleaner environment.
Resource persons, including environmental experts and activists, shared comprehensive talks with the students, focusing on the urgent need to adopt eco-friendly practices. The speakers highlighted how waste management, particularly reducing urban and marine waste, plays a critical role in protecting terrestrial and aquatic life.
Environmental activist Zakariyah Adonike delivered a presentation titled "Tackling Urban Waste," where he emphasized the importance of implementing effective strategies to reduce environmental degradation and promote hygiene for a healthier and sustainable future. He also discussed the short, medium, and long-term benefits of recycling materials such as plastic bottles for the ecosystem.
Another speaker, Sulaiman Muazu from the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), addressed the dangers of waste pollution in water bodies and called for concerted efforts to protect marine ecosystems. He encouraged proper waste disposal, reminding participants that a clean environment is essential for a healthy society.
ASI's Director of IT and Digital Innovation, Mr. Shaakaa Manasseh, described youths as "agents of change" in the fight against environmental degradation. He encouraged the students to take the lead in waste management efforts within their communities, stressing the critical role they can play in shaping a sustainable future by adopting responsible waste disposal and recycling habits.
The Vice Principal of Federal Government College, Uthman Sanni, who represented the school management, commended Atlanticare Support Initiative for choosing the school as the venue for this year’s World Cleanup Day celebration. He urged government bodies to partner with organizations like ASI in the fight against environmental pollution and degradation.
Gabriel Terfa, the State Lead for ASI, highlighted the organization’s commitment to inspiring young Nigerians to adopt responsible environmental behaviors. He emphasized that ASI is dedicated to empowering the next generation of leaders through education and engagement in waste management practices.
The event also included a hands-on demonstration where students learned to collect, sort, and recycle materials such as plastic bottles and paper waste, reinforcing the lessons shared throughout the day.
Atlanticare Support Initiative continues to play a pivotal role in raising awareness about environmental sustainability, particularly through youth engagement, as part of its mission to contribute to a cleaner and healthier planet.
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