The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the United Youth Initiative for Africa (UNIYIA) and other stakeholders hosted a Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) themed, “Beyond Breakdown: Youth Resilience in the Face of Climate Loss”, to address the urgent need for climate action and build a network of resilient youth climate leaders.

The Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) is a grassroots initiative connecting young people to the global climate conversation. Organized by YOUNGO, the UN's official youth group on climate change, LCOY serves as a localized mechanism of the Global Conference of Youth (COY). LCOY takes place every year prior to the UN Climate Change Conference (COP) and provides a platform for youth worldwide to contribute to a shared global statement, influencing international climate decisions and shaping the youth agenda on climate action.

The conference supported by UNDP and other partners, sought to raise awareness on climate change, promote youth engagement in sustainable development, and foster collaboration among youth climate leaders.

Speaking at the fourth LCOY on Climate Change, held at the University of Ghana, UNDP’s Head of Environment and Climate, Dr. Abdul-Razak Saeed emphasized UNDP Ghana’s commitment to empowering youth in creating a sustainable and equitable future. 

"Across UNDP’s programming, the youth remain central actors that are impacted by and can influence the delivery of sustainable interventions. We stand in solidarity with young people and commend their resilience in the face of climate related challenges”, he said.

The conference brought together over 100 young climate enthusiasts from various universities, senior high schools and climate experts from various sectors for insightful panel discussions and interactive sessions, focused on developing actionable strategies to combat the pressing issue of climate change.

"To create an enabling environment that supports our communities, we must tap into the wisdom of local minds and indigenous knowledge, integrating their insights into policy directions that drive meaningful change", noted Richmond Kennedy Quarcoo, Executive Director at Plastic Punch Ghana. 

Gideon Mankralo, the National Project Officer at the International Labor Organization also stated that, “The circular economy offers a chance for young people to take action against climate change while creating new job opportunities, driving innovation, and promoting sustainable growth". The circular economy seeks to reduce waste and optimize resource use to drive a more eco-friendly future, he emphasized.

With empowered young voices at the forefront, this initiative inspires collective action and fosters innovative solutions for a brighter and more sustainable future for all.