Debaters
Eco-Africa Network has successfully held the first-ever National Universities Climate Debate (NUCD), assembling some of Ghana’s brightest university students to exchange ideas and propose forward-thinking solutions to the growing threat of climate change.
The event took place on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the Dr. Daniel McKorley Moot Court at the GIMPA Law School, under the theme “Driving Climate Action Through Policy, Innovation, and Equity.” It served as a platform to amplify youth voices in the national conversation on climate resilience, renewable energy, and sustainable policy.
Welcoming participants, Kaleb Adane Frimpong, Deputy Board Chair of Eco-Africa Network, described the debate as a defining moment for young leaders passionate about shaping the country’s environmental future.
“This initiative sharpens climate dialogue — it challenges ideas, strengthens arguments, and inspires solutions that are both bold and practical,” he said.
The debate featured 12 universities engaging in rigorous discussions on issues such as climate financing, adaptation strategies, and the transition to clean energy.
Delivering the keynote address, Acting CEO of the National Youth Authority (NYA), Mr. Usman Ayariga, commended Eco-Africa Network for its commitment to youth empowerment through climate advocacy.
“Our collective future rests on the innovation and leadership of young people. Platforms like this spark the kind of thinking that drives progress,” he remarked.
Mr. Ayariga further encouraged students to view debating as a valuable civic skill, not merely a competition, emphasizing how it builds confidence and patriotism.
“Debate shapes responsible citizens. Take it seriously — it’s not just for fun. The NYA is ready to support and collaborate on such impactful initiatives,” he added.
The event enjoyed sponsorship from Nescafé, Didi Jollof, CESMA, Aldin Cycles, Mayekoo, and GIMPA Law School.
Among the participating institutions were the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), University of Ghana, University for Development Studies (UDS), University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), Ashesi University, GIMPA, and Central University.
After a series of engaging rounds, Team KNUST clinched the top spot, with the University of Ghana finishing as first runner-up.
Eco-Africa Network announced that the National Universities Climate Debate will become an annual event, rotating among tertiary institutions across Ghana to deepen youth-driven innovation and strengthen advocacy for climate action.
