LocationsFor Green Solutions
UNDP launches Youth-Led Innovation Challenge 2024
May 30, 2024
The Resident Representative of UNDP Sierra Leone, Fredrick Ampiah with the Deputy Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Madam, Yema Mimi Soba-Stephens and Executive Chairman of the EPA ,Dr. Abu-Bakarr Massaquoi at the launch.
Desmonda Aminata Cole
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Sierra Leone have launched the Youth-Led Innovation Challenge, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering young people to contribute to sustainable development and environmental protection in the country.
Launching the challenge, the Deputy Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Madam, Yema Mimi Soba-Stephens, emphasized the crucial role of young people in creating a sustainable future.
She underscored government’s commitments to support young innovators to develop homegrown solutions to address Sierra Leone’s specific needs while also contributing to global efforts. She said, “Sierra Leone, like many other countries, faces unique environmental challenges. By empowering our youth through this challenge, we are investing in providing solutions that will make a tangible difference in their community”.
The Deputy Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Madam, Yema Mimi Soba-Stephens launching the Challenge.
UNDP Sierra Leone/ Desmonda Aminata Cole
Speaking at the launch, the Resident Representative of UNDP in Sierra Leone, Mr. Fredrick Ampiah, highlighted the urgent need for the global environmental challenges to be addressed through innovative solutions.
He said, "Today, we are not just launching a challenge; we are igniting a movement, one that places the creativity, energy, and entrepreneurial spirit of our youth at the forefront of sustainable development.
He explained the Green Solutions Innovation Challenge is designed to equip young innovators with the necessary tools, resources, and support to develop and scale their solutions.
Resident Representative of UNDP Sierra Leone, Fredrick Ampiah speaking at the launch of the Challenge.
UNDP Sierra Leone /Desmonda Aminata Cole
The Executive Chairman of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr. Abu-Bakarr Massaquoi, underscored the importance of promoting youth innovation particularly for environmental sustainability. He said “Today we are here to celebrate the brilliant ideas and unstoppable energy of our young climate warriors who are not only dreaming of a better future but living it while innovating ideas.
He called for continuous public education for the youth, emphasizing the need to empower them with knowledge and skills to tackle climate change and sustainable development challenges.
The Executive Chairman of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr. Abu-Bakarr Massaquoi delivering his statement.
UNDP Sierra Leone/Desmonda Aminata Cole
The launch event, held in Freetown, was attended by key stakeholders, including media professionals, other UN agencies, government officials, and youth innovators from across Sierra Leone. The launch event concluded with a call to action for all young people in Sierra Leone to participate actively in the challenge and to bring forward their most innovative and impactful ideas.
About the Challenge
The Youth-Led Innovation Challenge is designed to encourage young Sierra Leoneans to propose innovative projects and ideas that seek to address environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and community development. This initiative aligns with the broader goals of the UNDP and EPA to promote sustainable development and environmental stewardship in Sierra Leone. By empowering the youth, the challenge aims to foster a new generation of leaders who are dedicated to building a greener and more resilient future for the country. During this challenge Participants will receive mentorship, training, and funding opportunities to turn their ideas into reality.
Related
content
content
