In a bid to promote a cleaner environment, students in Ekiti State have launched a campaign to sensitize residents on the dangers of indiscriminate waste disposal. The campaign, which was organized under the Ekiti Students Skill Up with YOMA Initiative, a UNICEF-funded project, took place in Ado-Ekiti and drew participation from students across various institutions. The students engaged market women, commercial motorcycle operators, community leaders, and residents, educating them on the importance of responsible waste disposal, tree planting, and pollution prevention.
The project lead, Modupe Adetiba, emphasized that environmental protection is a collective responsibility that should not be left to the government alone. She stressed that young people can identify challenges in their communities and help find solutions. Adetiba urged residents to dispose of waste responsibly and avoid practices that worsen environmental degradation. She also encouraged them to plant trees and protect existing vegetation, highlighting the importance of climate action and environmental protection as a collective effort.
The campaign, which was held to commemorate World Cleanup Day 2026, aimed to inspire young people to become active contributors to solving community problems. Adetiba noted that the students' participation was intended to demonstrate that young people can be solution providers, rather than just identifying problems. She urged residents, community leaders, and other stakeholders to join the campaign to keep the state clean and green.
A representative of the Ekiti State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Olasehinde Oloniyo, stated that the programme focuses primarily on youth development and capacity building, with environmental protection as an important component. He explained that the initiative was designed to equip young people with relevant skills, training, and opportunities to improve their employability and contribute to the state's development.
Oloniyo urged residents to complement government efforts by adopting responsible environmental practices, including proper waste disposal, tree planting, and protecting vegetation. He emphasized that the initiative was a collaborative effort between the Ekiti State Government and UNICEF, aimed at promoting sustainable development and environmental protection.
The campaign has been well-received by residents, who have expressed their commitment to adopting responsible environmental practices. The students' efforts have also been praised by community leaders, who recognize the importance of environmental protection and the role that young people can play in promoting sustainable development.
The Ekiti Students Skill Up with YOMA Initiative is part of a broader effort to promote youth development and environmental protection in the state. The initiative has provided young people with skills and training, enabling them to contribute to the state's development and promote sustainable practices. By engaging residents and promoting environmental protection, the students are helping to create a cleaner and healthier environment for the community.
Key points
- The campaign aims to promote responsible waste disposal and environmental protection in Ekiti State.
- The initiative is part of the Ekiti Students Skill Up with YOMA Initiative, a UNICEF-funded project.
- The students' efforts have been praised by community leaders and residents, who recognize the importance of environmental protection.
