PARTNERS AND PROGRAMS

To continue this work on the African continent, GYF Africa (GYFA) has established strategic partnerships with several Nigerian conservation organizations.  One of the earliest Memorandum of Understanding was executed with The Nigerian Conservation Foundation.  The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) is the premier Non Governmental Organisation (NGO) dedicated to nature conservation and sustainable development in Nigeria. Established in 1980, the Foundation was registered in 1982 as a Charitable Trust under the Land (Perpetual Succession) Act of 1961 - a policy that was replaced by the Company and Allied Matters Act of 1990. Founded by late Chief S. L. Edu, NCF has its patron as the sitting President and Commander- In-Chief of the Armed Force of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. (NCF)

The NCF has a vision of "a Nigeria where people prosper while living in harmony with nature". This vision drives its Mission to preserve the full range of Nigeria’s biodiversity which includes species, ecosystems and genetic biodiversity; promote the sustainable use of natural resources for the benefit of present and future generations; and advocate actions that minimize pollution and wasteful utilization of renewable resources. NCF maintains the lead in promoting environmental conservation and sustainable development; as such, NCF is the institutional symbol of natural resource management in Nigeria. Through its conservation projects, the foundation has developed unique nature conservation strategies that cater for the needs of people while maintaining ecosystem stability. Its ability to work across the spectrum of local communities, corporate bodies and the various tiers of Government using evidence-based actions are the unrivalled standards that pronounce our competence.

 

 

In September 2021, GYFA expanded its practical partnership culture with the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding with Rubitec Nigeria Limited, a Nigerian company that specializes in bringing renewable energy to the Nigerian population.  Rubitec is an industry leader in the provision of off-grid solar energy for various applications. Since its inception in 1988, Rubitec has consistently grown to become highly reputable in the delivery of quality energy services like; Standalone and hybrid photovoltaic (PV) systems design and installations; training and consultancy services; renewable energy product distribution and integration in the ever-growing off-grid Nigerian energy market. Rubitec is focused on becoming a leading solar energy company in the West African off-grid solar space, providing effective power solutions for commercial and industrial applications, residential homes in unserved and underserved communities.

The training and work development partnership as designed  will be one of the most ambitious alternative energy workforce development initiatives to date. The duo will introduce an aggressive training program in Nigeria; the goal is to train 1,000 Nigerian solar technicians over two years. All technicians will be fully certified by international standards and ready to join the growing renewable energy workforce worldwide.  This collaboration will integrate climate change awareness with intentional program initiatives that will benefit both urban and rural communities throughout Nigeria. Natural resource management training and careers are of the utmost importance to the mission of the Greening Youth Foundation. Rubitec’s bold step to take on this challenge with GYFA will continue to expand the alternative energy space in Nigeria.

This partnership is especially exciting because Rubitec Solar understands the critical importance of an uninterrupted power supply to these rural homes by way of solar power and inverters, backup power systems, small hydropower, biomass energy systems, waste to energy plants, land-fill gas plants, and wind energy. This initiative will change the landscape of electricity and solar power for the continent as countries move toward a more sustainable power source.

Unfortunately, due to the global COVID pandemic and the economic hardship experienced by developing countries, most projects were placed on hold until it was deemed safe to travel.  As businesses across Nigeria begin to re-open their doors, Rubitec and GYF will reconvene and restructure the program to best serve the needs of the Nigerian market.

 

OUR SOLAR TRAINING PROGRAMME

We are excited to share the news that Greening Youth Foundation Africa, in collaboration with MacTay Consulting, is embarking on its first-ever project - the Solar Training Project! This groundbreaking initiative aims to empower aspiring individuals with cutting-edge expertise and practical experience in the renewable energy sector, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.

Embracing Renewable Energy for a Better Tomorrow

In today's rapidly evolving world, there is an increasing need to adopt sustainable practices and embrace renewable energy sources. Greening Youth Foundation Africa recognizes this necessity and has partnered with MacTay Consulting to launch the Solar Training Project. By harnessing the immense potential of solar energy, this program seeks to create a positive impact on our environment while simultaneously providing aspiring individuals with valuable skills and knowledge.

Unlocking Opportunities for Aspiring Solar Technicians

The Solar Training Project is an extraordinary opportunity for individuals who are passionate about renewable energy and wish to make a difference in the world. Through our comprehensive training program, participants will receive top-notch education and hands-on experience to become certified solar technicians. This training will equip them with the necessary skills to design, install, and maintain solar energy systems efficiently and safely.

 

GYFA Environmental Education Program at Three Partner Schools

GLADYS NUR/PRY SCHOOL, KETU-LAGOS, NIGERIA

Since June 2022, Gladys Nur and Pry School in Ketu-Lagos, Nigeria, has embarked on an inspiring journey with the Greening Youth Foundation Africa (GYFA) through the Environmental Education Program. This program takes place on-site twice a month, specifically on Fridays.

The program unfolds in two sessions, accommodating pupils from both upper and lower primary classes. The upper primary, comprising Primary 4-6 students, engage first, followed by Primary 1-3 students in separate 30-minute slots. This arrangement ensures optimal learning conditions given the space constraints. Our dedicated educators occasionally take sessions outdoors, especially when exploring topics related to plants and pollination.

Our mission is to enrich students' understanding of the environment, promote healthy lifestyles, instill the significance of recycling (the 3Rs), underscore the importance of plant life, and emphasize wildlife conservation. As part of this mission, we aim to introduce outdoor excursions and camping activities in the near future, subject to funding support.

Gladys School, with over 300 pupils aged 4-13, covers an engaging curriculum. Last year, topics encompassed Healthy Living, Plant Life and Gardening, Pollution, the 3Rs, Pollination (Busy Bees), and Climate Change. This year, we're excited to introduce new subjects like Animal Charade, Camouflage, and the Importance of a Diverse Ecosystem.

As a rewarding incentive, the program conducts short quizzes and practical assignments, rewarding pupils with gift items at each class. Our Christmas giveaway spread cheer among all pupils, delivering valuable items. GYFA's collaborative efforts have empowered a new generation of environmental stewards, fostering sustainable practices and bright smiles.

BETHANY HALL SCHOOL, OGUDU-LAGOS, NIGERIA

Bethany Hall School in Ogudu-Lagos, Nigeria, joined hands with GYFA in September 2022 to implement the Environmental Education program. Sessions are held during the assembly twice a month on Tuesdays.

The program aligns with the school's goal to cultivate environmental awareness and healthy living practices. Students learn about recycling (3Rs), the significance of plants, and wildlife conservation. We aspire to immerse pupils in nature through excursions and camping activities, and we're actively working on fundraising campaigns to make this a reality.

Teachers at Bethany Hall School support the program wholeheartedly, fostering an engaged and attentive learning environment. Pupils, ranging from ages 4-13 and spanning Primary 1-6, eagerly participate and contribute to discussions. GYFA envisions a lasting impact that transforms these young learners into committed environmental stewards and advocates for their community.

TENDERVILLE SCHOOL, LEKKI LAGOS, NIGERIA

Tenderville School in Lekki, Lagos, is excited to announce its partnership with the Greening Youth Foundation Africa (GYFA) for an innovative Environmental Education initiative.

This program is aimed at fostering environmental awareness and inspiring young minds in Nigeria to become protectors of nature. GYFA's mission aligns with nurturing underrepresented youth and guiding them towards careers in conservation. Tenderville School will engage its students with a curriculum co-developed with GYF North America, promoting creative thinking and positive environmental attitudes.

As these students mature, the impact of the program will shape them into dedicated stewards of their environment, championing conservation within their community. Generous support from individuals and organizations in both North America and Africa fuels the GYFA Environmental Education program. You can contribute by visiting the GYFA website and clicking the donate button—your support will be invaluable.

Together, we're creating a brighter, greener future through education and empowerment.