At PMM Girls’ School in Uganda, students are engaging with environmental conservation with what is called the Green Master curriculum, a program led by the NGO GirlsForClimateAction. The initiative uses creativity and play, such as poetry and games, to raise awareness about environmental issues such as biodiversity protection and recycling.

The program also encourages young people to devise their own eco-friendly solutions to problems, for example a ‘hoop bin,’ made from plastic waste, which helps reduce littering and even led to a policy changes at one school, including banning polythene bags. The innovation demonstrates how small actions can create lasting environmental change.

Beyond school, participants influence their communities by advocating for sustainability. The program helps youth connect emotionally with climate issues, fostering both concern and hope. Educators emphasize the role of young people in environmental protection, recognizing their energy and passion as driving forces in bringing about change and finding solutions to climate change.

Since 2016, the initiative has reached 30 schools, with students competing for the Green Master Challenge award. They pass on what they have learned and contribute to building a greener Uganda.