Experts Urge Youth Upskilling in Green Economy at COP29 Side Event
At a side event during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29), experts from various sectors called for the urgent upskilling and reskilling of Nigerian and African youth to meet the demands of the evolving global green economy. Organized by Vivacity Development in collaboration with Ororo Waste Management, the event focused on equipping young people with the skills needed for emerging opportunities in green industries.
The event, which drew prominent figures in climate advocacy, policy, and development, explored strategies to adapt to shifts in the green economy, foster innovation, and prepare workforces for the future of work.
Marianne Overton, climate and energy spokesperson for the Council of Europe Municipalities and Regions, highlighted the critical role of education in driving sustainable change. “Education is the precursor of real change and the tool that makes it happen. Partnerships between businesses and colleges can empower local economies by creating smarter workforce solutions,” Overton stated, emphasizing the growth potential in sectors like renewable energy, waste management, and climate finance.
Olumide Idowu, Executive Director of ICCDI Africa, stressed the importance of civil society organizations in promoting green skills training, particularly for underrepresented communities. He encouraged youth to take proactive steps toward sustainable development through innovation and partnerships.
Innocent Edemhanria, Program Manager at the Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ), detailed innovative solutions such as reforestation, mangrove restoration, and sustainable agriculture. He highlighted how renewable energy initiatives, such as solar microgrids and biogas, create jobs while reducing fossil fuel reliance. Edemhanria also discussed technologies like bioremediation for oil spill prevention, showcasing their dual role in environmental protection and job creation.
Fred Njehu, Pan-Africa Political Strategist at Greenpeace Africa, underscored the need for collaborative political strategies to foster green job creation and sustainable development. He presented Greenpeace Africa’s initiatives that align environmental sustainability with economic opportunities.
Sohaila Nasser, Development Coordinator at YLE Foundation, focused on industries resistant to adopting sustainable practices, sharing strategies to integrate green skills and enhance workforce adaptability in such sectors.
A significant highlight of the event was Ororo Waste Management’s showcase of its biofuels feedstock aggregation activities in Nigeria. The company demonstrated the potential of carbon projects to create large-scale green jobs, build capacity, and develop green technologies across the continent.
Engr. Oluwakemi Ann-Melody Areola, the event’s convener, emphasized the transformative impact of the conference’s resolutions on Africa’s youth. She urged governments to adapt these ideas to suit their countries’ unique needs.