Inomuinjo Kapimbi, a dedicated advocate for environmental preservation, last week launched the Schools Environmental Club (SEC) initiative, which is designed to empower young students to serve as catalysts for environmental change. 

Driven by a profound commitment to ecological issues, Kapimbi established the SEC initiative in March 2024. 

It aims to inform students about environmental challenges, and provide them with the necessary knowledge and skills to effect meaningful action.

“I started the initiative because I saw the urgent need to engage young learners in environmental protection. I believe that students have the power to bring about meaningful change in their schools, especially when it comes to sustainability,” he said. 

The SEC initiative seeks to cultivate a sense of environmental responsibility among youth through interactive activities such as tree planting, recycling initiatives, and campaigns focused on environmental awareness. By establishing a collaborative platform for students, the initiative aspires to motivate a generation of leaders who are conscious of environmental issues. 

Kapimbi noted that since its launch, the SEC initiative has garnered significant support from various organisations, including the Namibia Chamber of Environment and Wakapinya Environment Education. 

The initiative is currently broadening its impact by extending its programmes to schools throughout Namibia, with a recent introduction at Chairman Mao Zedong High School.

“I am working with a dedicated team of learners, teachers and external partners. We had a successful secondary school launch. We want to inspire students to take an active role in protecting and conserving the environment. Through education, hands-on activities and community engagement, we aim to foster a generation that is not only aware of environmental issues, but also equipped to address them through practical, sustainable solutions,” he said. 

Andrean Kamwandi, the co-founder of the environmental club, expressed to Youth Corner her increasing passion for educating and advocating for plant biodiversity in Namibia. 

Alongside a team of dedicated individuals, they have developed a community action plan that encompasses various initiatives. These initiatives include tree planting, monthly cleanup campaigns, debate competitions, the reintroduction of post-mounted litter bins, and volunteering at soup kitchens to engage and educate their peers. They are actively implementing these practical initiatives by leveraging opportunities such as the Global Climate Shaper and Ashoka Young Change Makers Competition to positively influence the community.

“My passion for environmentalism was ignited at a very young age. I was involved in an environmental club, volunteered at animal shelters and the school garden, and spent
my time making awareness posters. 

Presently, I am a matricul student at the Hage Geingob High School where I have been influential in various environmental activities, including leading the establishment of the school’s environmental club. Through recognition of my work, I was subsequently appointed as the coordinator of SEC initiative,” she said. 

She added that she was actively involved in environmental clubs, and visited several places. One impactful experience was during a school trip to the Namib Desert. They had the opportunity to lead sustainable lives, and find green solutions at the NaDEET Centre. 

“My unwavering love for biosphere initiatives is aimed at promoting conservation efforts, raising awareness about environmental issues, and advocating for sustainable practices both within my school and the community,” she said.  -pmukokobi@nepc.com.na