Athieno Mwebesa, the Commissioner for Climate Change in the Ministry of Water and Environment, emphasized that climate change is no longer a distant threat but an ongoing crisis impacting communities, livelihoods, and biodiversity.
Climate change experts have called on the government to incorporate climate education into Uganda's new education curriculum to equip young people with the knowledge and skills necessary to address environmental challenges.
This call was made during the second John Ntambirweki Memorial Lecture, held under the theme "Resilience in the Rwenzori: Building Inclusive Climate Solutions" at Uganda Pentecostal University’s main campus in Mucwa, Fort Portal City.
The event gathered researchers, policymakers, and environmental activists to discuss sustainable strategies for mitigating the impacts of climate change, particularly in the Rwenzori region.
Margaret Athieno Mwebesa, the Commissioner for Climate Change in the Ministry of Water and Environment, emphasized that climate change is no longer a distant threat but an ongoing crisis impacting communities, livelihoods, and biodiversity.
She pointed to the increasing frequency of floods, landslides, and unpredictable weather patterns in the Rwenzori Mountains as clear evidence of the urgent need for action.
Mwebesa further noted a significant knowledge gap among the youth regarding climate change and environmental conservation. She suggested that integrating climate education into the school curriculum would empower students to actively participate in developing sustainable solutions.
Prof. Patricia Kameri Mbote, the Director of the Law Division at the United Nations Environment Programme in Nairobi, stressed the importance of community engagement, policy support, and investment in green technologies to strengthen climate resilience.
She urged the government to prioritize environmental education across all levels, from primary schools to universities, ensuring that future generations are well-equipped to address climate challenges.
The John Ntambirweki Memorial Lecture is an annual event dedicated to honoring the late professor’s legacy in advocating for education. Ntambirweki, the founder and former Vice Chancellor of Uganda Pentecostal University, passed away in 2023.
