Shai Osudoku District launches sustainable Zero Waste Project in schools

The Zoomlion Foundation, in collaboration with Ghana Education, has launched an ambitious Zero Waste Project in schools, aimed at fostering sustainable practices through education.

The inaugural event took place on Friday, May 31st, 2024, alongside the Shai Osudoku District Education Directorate, signalling the start of a comprehensive initiative that will expand to all districts in the Greater Accra Region.

The Regional Director of Education, Mr. Stephen Abamfo, underscored the importance of proper waste management throughout the country and its institutions. He highlighted the necessity of cultivating a zero-waste mindset among students, encouraging them to become champions of sustainable practices.

"I will issue a communique to all district education directors to ensure that all students embrace and promote the zero waste initiative," Mr. Abamfo announced, expressing appreciation for Zoomlion's support.

Mrs. Harriet Lomotey, the Shai Osudoku District Education Director, stressed the significance of a united effort from all parties to guarantee the success of the zero waste initiative. "As educators, we must adopt zero waste as a lifestyle, adhering to the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle," she declared.

The project will incorporate recycling into visual arts curricula, enabling students to convert waste materials into artistic creations. Additionally, designated advocates will continue to engage and hold the community accountable. The initiative will also include an essay competition on zero waste at least once each term to enhance student participation and consciousness.

Apostle Theophilus Kusi of the Chaplaincy Department of Zoomlion delivered the keynote speech on behalf of the managing director. Referencing scripture, he emphasized humanity's duty to protect the environment, affirming that education is crucial to fulfilling this responsibility. Apostle Kusi commended the Shai Osudoku district education directorate for its forward-thinking stance and called on all stakeholders to disseminate the zero waste message.

Mr. Noah Sabutey, representing the District Chief Executive of Shai Osudoku, conveyed his thanks for the initiative's launch in the district and committed the assembly's unwavering support for the project's triumph.

Mr. Thomas Narh Korley, the Coordinator for the Zoomlion Foundation, remarked that the Zero Waste Project in Shai Osudoku represents a trailblazing move towards environmental sustainability, utilizing education to nurture a mindset of waste minimization and recycling among the youth.

Mr. Korley voiced his conviction that educators have the capacity to inspire innovation in students, which can advance the zero waste initiative.

The Sustainable Zero Waste Initiative aims to instill enduring waste management practices in the forthcoming generation, advocating for a cleaner, greener, and more salubrious environment for everyone.