"Shaping a generation is not only about education but also about creating a greener world," declared Minister of Education Berhanu Nega (Prof.) during a speech addressing the nationwide 700 million sapling planting program.
His statement underscores the interconnectedness of education and environmental sustainability in securing a prosperous future for Ethiopia.
Professor Berhanu emphasized the collective responsibility of all Ethiopians in creating a sustainable environment for future generations.
“We all have a responsibility to make Ethiopia a country that will be a home for our children and the future generation,” he stated, highlighting the urgency of addressing environmental challenges.
The minister argued that education alone is insufficient if the world inherited by future generations is degraded and unproductive.
"If we inherit a burnt and unproductive world, learning is useless; therefore, the Green Footprint Program is everyone’s responsibility," he asserted, emphasizing the importance of environmental action as a prerequisite for societal progress.
The Green Legacy Program, a key component of Ethiopia's broader Green Legacy initiative, focuses on promoting environmental awareness and fostering a culture of sustainability within the education system, he underscored.
According to him, schools across the country are actively participating in tree planting activities, integrating environmental education into the curriculum, and encouraging students to adopt eco-friendly practices.
Professor Berhanu stressed that the Green Footprint initiative transcends political affiliations, framing it as a fundamental human imperative. "This is not a matter of politics but of being human," he proclaimed, emphasizing the universal responsibility to protect the environment. He further described the initiative as "a work based on knowledge that changes human lives and that is done with awareness of the relationship with nature."
The program aims to instill in young Ethiopians a deep understanding of the delicate balance between humanity and the natural world. By fostering environmental consciousness from an early age, the Green Footprint initiative seeks to create a generation of environmentally responsible citizens who will champion sustainable practices throughout their lives.
The Ethiopian government views the Green Legacy and Green Footprint initiatives as crucial investments in the country's long-term prosperity. By combating deforestation, promoting biodiversity, and fostering environmental awareness, these programs contribute to a more resilient and sustainable future for Ethiopia and its people. The success of these initiatives hinges on the continued commitment of individuals, communities, and the government to safeguarding the environment for generations to come. This includes careful monitoring of sapling survival, sustainable forest management, and ongoing environmental education programs, according to the minister.
