By Ify Onyekwere
Children and youth from secondary schools in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, gathered in an inspiring display of intellectual and creative prowess at the 2024 Green Christmas Debate and Choral Competitions, a platform aimed at promoting sustainable practices during the festive season.
The event, organized by Dr Chimere Ohajinwa, brought to the fore key developmental issues such as waste management, sustainability, and inclusivity.
Participants in the debate explored thought-provoking topics, including the feasibility of achieving a zero-waste society. They emphasized the importance of recycling waste by adopting a waste segregation system—separating plastics, papers, and organic materials. “If we start recycling our waste, we can compost organic waste into manure and give back to the planet,” one participant noted, underscoring the critical role of individual responsibility in sustainable living.
Another key theme was the need to protect the planet for future generations. Speakers passionately called for sustainable strategies to preserve traditions like Christmas while fostering habits that promote environmental consciousness. “It is time to give back to the planet by protecting it with sustainable strategies, ensuring future generations can enjoy celebrations like Christmas with the practice of sustainability ingrained in them,” a participant added.
Notably, the event also highlighted the importance of inclusivity. Students with disabibilites were represented and a student from the sect used the platform to call on the government to establish infrastructures that is more accommodating for persons with disabilities. “If special needs people are integrated into our society, it will be easier for others to relate with them,” the student expressed in sign language, emphasizing the need for equitable development.
Speaking on the goals of the event, Dr Chimere Ohajinwa, the organizer, remarked that the 2024 Green Christmas Debate aims to inspire Nigerians to observe the festive season more responsibly. “The goal is to proffer solutions on how Nigerians could celebrate in ways that preserve the environment and mitigate the impact of climate change,” she said.
The competition also featured captivating choral performances that complemented the event’s themes of sustainability and unity. By blending critical discussions with cultural expressions, the Green Christmas Debate and Choral Competitions created a memorable platform for fostering environmental consciousness and inclusivity during the holiday season.
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I love the educational back up of the event because the students are left out from so many events that are really impactful.