Nakuru, Kenya – Rift Valley National Polytechnic (RVNP) has initiated an annual beauty pageant aimed at inspiring young people to engage in climate change actions and initiatives.

According to a news release by the Kenya News Agency, RVNP Principal Mr. Sammy Chemoiwa emphasized the importance of involving young people in climate change actions, highlighting the detrimental impact of harsh climates on agricultural productivity.

The beauty pageant’s primary goal is to raise awareness and educate communities in Nakuru, Kericho, Baringo, Bomet, and Narok counties about the measures necessary to adapt to harsh climatic patterns. Mr. Chemoiwa stressed that RVNP aims to equip its students to become influential advocates for environmental consciousness and agents of change.

Expressing concern over the disparity between youth who understand climate change and those who are aware but lack actionable knowledge, Mr. Chemoiwa called for concerted efforts to bridge this gap. He stated that the beauty pageant should serve as a platform for advocating societal changes and promoting sustainability.

This year’s pageant is themed ‘Infusing diversity and inclusion to mitigate climate change’ and aims to promote environmental conservation locally and regionally. The institution intends to use the pageant to encourage eco-friendly approaches to fashion and other sustainable practices.

Furthermore, the RVNP beauty pageant intends to promote ecotourism as an incentive for environmental awareness and sustainability. RVNP is committed to creating awareness of and practicing environmental sustainability not only in schools but also in public spaces.

Mr. Chemoiwa disclosed that RVNP’s Fashion Design, Clothing Technology, and Garment Department are incorporating eco-friendly materials into their designs and adopting circular business models. The institution recognizes the growing importance of transparency and traceability in consumer demand for sustainable products.

To address the climate change challenge, RVNP believes in integrating youth into established climate frameworks, nurturing their involvement in shaping a sustainable future for Africa. Mr. Chemoiwa emphasized that youth engagement in climate change goes beyond symbolism; it is a movement gaining formidable momentum.

A study by the non-governmental organization ‘Spearheading Green Workforce Preparation in Africa’ revealed that out of the 13.8 million Kenyans aged between 15-34, only 7.5 million understand what actions to take to mitigate the impact of climate change, despite 90 percent of the total youth population having knowledge of climate change and its causes.

RVNP is taking proactive measures to address climate change through research and solutions to its consequences. The institution seeks to empower young individuals to drive climate action forward, leveraging their firsthand experiences and growing awareness of climate change’s global emergency.

RVNP Dean of Students, Mr. Joseph Keraru, emphasized the role of educational institutions in providing comprehensive climate change education. He highlighted the youth’s potential to be catalysts for change, driven by creativity, innovation, and boundless energy.

The beauty pageant represents one avenue where the ideas, innovations, and solutions of young people are embraced and supported with resources, including funding and skills, to advance climate action.

In a world facing the dire consequences of climate change, youth and millennials emerge as the most potent catalysts for change and leadership in addressing the global climate crisis. RVNP student leader Mr. Ledama Milton underscored the need to amplify youth voices, considering that they are the ones directly experiencing the effects of environmental degradation.

The youth’s long-term perspectives and innovative approaches make them key contributors to finding solutions to climate challenges. Technology and social media provide them with platforms to advocate for sustainability and renewable energy sources.

Historically, youth have often been excluded from decision-making processes, despite education being pivotal in shaping public opinion on climate change. RVNP recognizes the potential impact of youth engagement in climate action and aims to harness their creativity and passion to create a more sustainable and resilient future for all.