Environmental Awareness Programs in 13 Elementary and High Schools

About

2iE’s environmental awareness program aims to educate a new generation of engaged citizens by reaching out to elementary and high schools in Ouagadougou. Currently implemented in thirteen schools and set to expand to others, the program raises students’ awareness of climate change issues, waste management, sustainable water and energy use, and best environmental practices in schools. Led by 2iE students with the support of academic staff, the project relies on interactive approaches combining hands-on workshops, presentations, and participatory discussions. It fosters a practical understanding of these issues and encourages action. Observed results include the adoption of eco-friendly behaviors, the creation of environmental clubs, greater teacher involvement, and the implementation of local initiatives such as recycling, cleanup, and reforestation. This initiative makes a lasting contribution to strengthening environmental citizenship and youth engagement.

Top 3 learnings

1. The students showed strong engagement and actively participated in the discussions and quiz, demonstrating a genuine interest in the environment.
2. The interactive activities helped raise individual awareness: several students expressed a desire to change certain habits (electricity consumption, waste management).
3. The school administration and teachers were actively involved; they deemed the activity relevant and adapted its content to the students’ level.

What it means to win

Winning the Green Gowns Awards signifies international recognition of the institute’s commitment and its ongoing efforts to promote sustainable development in African regions and to enhance the quality of life on our campuses, which we aim to make green and smart. It demonstrates that an African institution of higher education can help change the continent’s development trajectory by training highly qualified professionals who are aware of and equipped to address the sustainability challenges facing the continent. These challenges include climate change, education, quality of life, inclusion, the circular economy, responsible digital technology, and more. Winning will enable us to spark interest in sustainability within the education sector by demonstrating that this sector can spearhead a new movement centered on sustainability and nature-based solutions. Winning will enable us to assume the leadership role envisioned by the 2iE Institute by bringing together other universities and educational institutions of all types to advance sustainable development. Finally, it will enable us to mobilize resources, facilitate partnerships, and foster synergies at the national and international levels to transform our campuses into living laboratories, incubators, and ecosystems that generate eco-technological solutions and social innovations aligned with the sustainability challenges facing Africa.

Judges' feedback 

Nice simple, scalable model without requiring extensive resourcing. A great initiative with potential to transform lives in the country and region. Although in early iteration, the project has a good reach and shows promise. A very strong connection with secondary schools and good numbers of students engaged. Raises environmental awareness among students through targeted educational initiatives. Engages schools and communities in sustainability efforts.

Sustainable Development Goals