-As NELTP Cohort 3 Wraps Up in Monrovia
Monrovia- The third cohort of the National Environmental Leadership Training Program (NELTP) ended Wednesday October 25, 2024 in Monrovia, as about fifty young climate leaders from across Liberia completed an intensive three-day workshop.
Held at the European Union Delegation office in Mamba Point from October 23-25, the program empowered youth, students, civil society members, and professionals with the skills to combat Liberia’s escalating environmental challenges.
Organized by the Partnership for Environmental Actions on Climate Change and Ecosystem Protection (PEACCEP) Liberia, in collaboration with Eco Climate Initiative and the support of the Environmental Protection Agency of Liberia and the European Union Delegation in Liberia, the training equipped participants with practical skills in climate advocacy, project development, and negotiation strategies used on the global stage.
For Tina Mehnpaine, a journalist interested in environmental reporting, the training was an eye-opener.
“We have seen the vivid impact of climate change in Liberia, so what I have learned is the different negotiation that goes on at the Conference of Parties- COPs, what countries do there, and what they go for,” she said.
“Being able to learn and meet other young people who are on the frontline has been amazing, and I hope this continues.”
The program drew experts from prominent universities, international organizations, and government agencies, giving Liberian youth direct access to a wealth of knowledge on issues ranging from nature-based solutions to climate justice.
Isiaka Kromah, another participant, emphasized the need for continued collaboration among young people to address climate issues in Liberia.
“Having a conversation about climate change and how young people can be able to contribute to our planet has been vital for us,” Kromah shared. “We have learned a lot from the presentations to the collaboration efforts.”
Valeria S. Toby, another participant, added, “It’s very helpful, it is very, very good, and I encourage other young people to take advantage of this program next year.”
Shedike V. Kamara, Executive Director of Eco Climate Initiative, closed the event by stressing that the program is just the beginning. “We are dedicated to fostering a generation of environmental advocates who can lead the way in sustainable practices and climate action,” he stated.
“This initiative is only the beginning; we will continue to provide the tools, training, and platform needed to equip more young leaders in Liberia.”
The NELTP program, now in its third year, began in 2022 and has quickly grown in popularity, positioning itself as a driving force for young environmental leadership across the country.
“We aim to create a ripple effect across Liberia,” said Arthur R.M. Becker, Executive Director/Team Lead of PEACCEP Liberia Inc. “The knowledge shared here will spread throughout the participants’ communities, creating a network of environmental advocates that extends beyond this training.”
As participants leave the 2024 training, they carry with them the skills, knowledge, and ambition needed to tackle the environmental crises facing Liberia, making this year’s cohort one of the most promising yet.
The Partnership for Environmental Actions on Climate Change and Ecosystem Protection including its partners- Eco Climate Initiative and the Liberia Youth and Civil Society and Environmental Secretariat promises to extend said training across Liberia and plans to organize the 4th cohort of the NELTP in 2025 bringing together more participants
