By Theoneste Ndungutse
NATIONAL PEACE ADVISOR & YOUTH ENGAGE TEAM LEADER, NEVER AGAIN RWANDA
Amidst Rwanda’s breathtaking landscapes, the vision of a greener, more sustainable future is driven by the unwavering zeal of its vibrant youth. In the face of unprecedented environmental challenges, the significance of the younger generation in forging a sustainable path forward cannot be underestimated. Equipped with green skills, the youth can ignite a transformative journey to protect Rwanda’s natural wonders and cultivate a flourishing society in harmony with the environment.
“Green skills” are crucial for achieving a sustainable society as they encompass a diverse set of knowledge and capabilities focused on environmental stewardship. Rwanda has recognized the importance of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) in empowering its population, especially the youth, to embrace responsible approaches in resource utilization, improving livelihoods, and enhancing overall quality of life. The government has implemented key priority programs, including the Promotional Program on Environmental Education for Sustainable Development (EESD), EESD Leadership Program, EESD in Primary and Secondary Schools, and a Training program for the Media on EESD Reporting. These initiatives, coupled with strategies such as curriculum development, vision building, capacity building, and advocacy, aim to achieve social and environmental justice by breaking down existing barriers.
Rwanda’s youth population, comprising approximately 29% of the overall population, plays a pivotal role in the country’s aspirations to become a green, climate-resilient, and low-carbon economy by 2050. To realize this vision, the youth must possess key green skills that contribute significantly to a greener, healthier, and more sustainable society:
Renewable Energy: Equipped with competencies in renewable energy technologies, the youth can drive the transition to clean energy sources, such as solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal power. This will contribute to Rwanda’s ambitious objective of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 38% by 2030, creating job opportunities and driving economic progress within the nation.
Sustainable Agriculture: Youth with expertise in organic farming, agroecology, permaculture, and sustainable land management will safeguard food security and precious ecosystems. By introducing drought-resistant crops, improving water management, and prioritizing environmental well-being, they can ensure reliable and sustainable food production, benefiting farming communities.
Waste Management: Knowledgeable youth can tackle urbanization’s waste challenges by implementing strategies for waste reduction, recycling, composting, and waste-to-energy technologies. This will lead Rwanda towards becoming a resource-efficient, zero-waste economy operating on circular economy principles by 2035.
Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation: Equipped with climate change expertise, the youth will lead initiatives such as reforestation, eco-friendly land-use practices, restoration projects, and sustainable forest management. These efforts will effectively curb Rwanda’s carbon footprint and preserve valuable resources, reducing the impact of climate-related challenges.
Sustainable Water Management: Youth knowledgeable in water conservation, efficient usage, and wastewater treatment will ensure access to safe drinking water and quality sanitation facilities. As water demand rises due to population growth and climate challenges, their expertise will contribute to sustainable water management for the future.
Environmental Conservation and Biodiversity: Equipped with expertise in environmental conservation and sustainable practices, the youth will safeguard Rwanda’s ecosystems, protect unique species, and promote sustainable tourism and economic growth for local communities.
Green Building and Design: Youth experts in green building design will champion sustainable construction practices, using recycled materials and low-emission building products to reduce the ecological impact. This approach will protect Rwanda’s precious natural resources and the health of its people.
Sustainable Transport: Youth mastering eco-friendly transportation options like public transit, cycling, and electric vehicles will significantly curb carbon emissions in Rwanda. Their active involvement will enhance eco-friendly movement, tackle traffic issues, and improve charging infrastructure while promoting green spaces and pedestrian-friendly urban planning.
Circular Economy: Youth passionate about the environment and prosperity will lead the charge in adopting circular economy principles and practices. By creating products designed for durability, repairability, and crafted from recycled or renewable materials, they will champion waste reduction, resource optimization, and sustainable consumption, sparking economic opportunities for local communities.
Environmental Education and Awareness: Armed with knowledge on environmental issues, sustainable lifestyles, and conservation, the youth will champion eco-friendly habits, raise community awareness, and inspire collective action to implement pro-environment policies.
In conclusion, Rwanda’s sustainable future lies in the hands of its empowered and determined youth. Equipped with green skills, they can drive innovation and sustainable practices, creating a society that thrives in harmony with nature. Through their collective efforts, they will leave behind a legacy of progress, inspiring others to join the path towards a greener, healthier, and more sustainable Rwanda.
References
Benavot, A. (2014). Education for sustainable development in primary and secondary education. Background paper prepared for the DESD unit at UNESCO headquarters, Paris, France.
GoR (2011). Green Growth and Climate Resilience: National Strategy for Climate Change and Low Carbon Development. Kigali, Rwanda Environment Management Authority.
GoR (2018). Fifth Integrated Household Living Conditions Survey (2016/2017)
GoR (2022). National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda
McGrath, S. (2020). Skilling for Sustainable Futures: To SDG 8 and Beyond. TESF Background Paper Series. Bristol, TESF.
Ministry of Education (2019). The Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF) for Rwanda Quality Basic Education for human capital development project.
Ministry of Education. (2018). Education Sector Strategic Plan 2018/2019 to 2023/2024. .Retrieved on: https://mineduc.gov.rw/fileadmin/Documents/Research%20documents/Education_S ector_Strategic_Plan_2018_2024.pdf
Rieckmann, M. (2018). Learning to transform the world: Key competencies in Education for Sustainable Development. Issues and trends in education for sustainable development, 39, 39-59.
Unterhalter, E. (2020). Skills for Human Development: Transforming Vocational Education and Training/Education for Sustainable Development in the Postcolonial World: Towards a Transformative Agenda for Africa: by L. Tikly, Abingdon, Routledge, 2020, hardback£ 120 (264 pp) ISBN 9780415792943; paperback£ 31.49 ISBN 9780515792967.
https://www.newtimes.co.rw/article/7268/news/rwanda/floods-number-of-deaths-injuries-destroyed-houses-slightly-increase
https://en.igihe.com/news/article/the-journey-to-transforming-rwanda-requires-us-to-stay-the-course-kagame