By By: Staff Writer
Students Lead Climate Action in Grand Cape Mount’s First Green Club Essay Competition
Robertsport City came alive with youthful energy and environmental engagement as students from across Grand Cape Mount County convened on October 29–30 for the Green Club Conservation Essay Competition, a landmark initiative spearheaded by BudgIT Liberia with support from Conservation International CI and the Global Environment Facility GEF
Themed “Our Voice for Nature: Nurturing Eco-Conscious Youth in Protecting Lake Piso’s Ecosystem” the two-day event highlighted fresh environmental consciousness while showcasing the creativity and dedication of Liberia’s emerging climate advocates
“This initiative is a strategic intervention to build stronger minds and greener hearts” said Mr Abraham Varney Team Lead of Budgit Liberia “It bridges academic and environmental development by improving writing skills while inspiring students to value and protect Liberia’s rich natural ecosystems particularly the mangroves sustaining Lake Piso”
Dozens of students from elementary and high schools submitted essays addressing climate change mangrove preservation waste management and sustainable living Their work reflected both the urgency of environmental challenges and the potential for positive action in Liberia’s future
The Principal of Robertsport High School speaking on behalf of participating institutions described the initiative as “transformative and timely” praising BudgIT Liberia for providing a platform that nurtures creativity environmental awareness and essential life skills
An Environmental Protection Agency EPA representative also lauded BudgIT’s vision calling the competition “a beacon of hope for a generation that must lead Liberia’s green transformation” and encouraged schools nationwide to adopt similar youth-centered environmental programs
Winners Recognized for Environmental Leadership
Following a rigorous judging process the top three students of the 2025 Green Club Conservation Essay Competition were announced Othello J Nyemah First Place Abigail McCarthy Second Place and Amie Kemokai Third Place
First-place winner Othello J Nyemah described his achievement as more than personal recognition “This is not just a prize it’s a reminder that young people have the power to shape a greener more sustainable Liberia” he said “I dedicate this win to every student who believes that change begins with awareness and action”
Beyond the essay contest Budgit Liberia and its partners facilitated Climate Conversation Forums in participating schools These interactive sessions focused on waste management climate resilience and sustainable living encouraging students to translate their ideas into practical community initiatives
The event concluded with the launch of a Youth Conservation Network aimed at sustaining school-based environmental programs across Grand Cape Mount County
Key Highlights from the 2025 Green Club Essay Competition
Over 20 students participated across elementary and high school levels
The top three essays will be featured in Budgit Liberia’s Youth for Nature digital bulletin
Participants will receive mentorship from environmental professionals
The initiative enhanced local understanding of mangrove protection and Lake Piso’s ecosystem
As the sun set over the waters of Lake Piso Robertsport sent a clear message Liberia’s youth are no longer passive observers in climate discussions They are thinkers writers and advocates demanding action to protect their future
Budgit Liberia reaffirmed its commitment to empowering young environmental leaders and fostering climate literacy nationwide
“The energy and creativity of these students prove that Liberia’s green future is already in motion” Mr Varney said “All they need is a platform and Budgit is proud to provide it”
With their pens voices and visions for a cleaner Liberia these young conservationists have declared one message loud and clear the fight for nature begins now and it begins with them
