(Monrovia, Liberia – April 15, 2025 )– The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Liberia, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, is hosting a one day high-level training for secondary school children in Monrovia on climate change and Liberia’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

The training is taking place at the Murex Plaza and is sponsored by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). Children from seven high schools in Monrovia are taking part in the program, which is focused on educating young people about climate change and how Liberia plans to fight it through the NDC 3.0 process.

Speaking on behalf of EPA Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel K. Urey Yarkpawolo, Arthur R.M. Becker, Director of the Department of Multilateral Environmental Agreements, said the EPA recognizes the important role children will play in the future of climate action in Liberia.

“Dr. Yarkpawolo would have loved to be here with you today but could not attend because of an international assignment,” Becker said. “He sends his greetings and wants you to know how much the EPA values the involvement of young people in the fight against climate change.”

Mr. Becker explained that Liberia, like many other countries, is facing serious environmental problems caused by climate change, including hotter temperatures, unpredictable rain, and natural disasters. He encouraged the students to take the training seriously, as they are the future leaders of the country.

“You are not just students. You are our next leaders, and your voice matters in this fight,” Becker added. “We hope this training inspires you to take action in your schools and communities.”

Also speaking at the training, Mr. Teddy P. Taylor, Climate Change Coordinator and National Focal Point for Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE) at the EPA, said the training is designed to help students better understand climate change issues and how their voices can help Liberia meet its climate goals.

Taylor announced that at the end of the training, 15 students will be selected to attend a three-day retreat in Ganta, Nimba County, from April 17–19, 2025. That retreat, he said, will bring together children, women, and youth representatives to discuss how to include child rights in the final version of Liberia’s NDC 3.0.

Representing UNICEF, Matenneh Kimberlyn Barnoh, an inclusion champion, praised the EPA and its partners for organizing the training. She said UNICEF remains committed to supporting Liberia’s efforts to involve children in climate education and action.

“UNICEF is proud to be part of this important work,” she said. “We hope you will take the lessons you learn here and apply them in your schools and communities.”

Speaking for the Ministry of Education, Klayjue N. Tukon, Technical Assistant, said the training is in line with the Ministry’s goal to provide Liberian students with real-life education that prepares them to be responsible citizens.

“This is not just a regular workshop,” Tukon said. “This is a chance for students to learn about one of the most important issues affecting our world today. The Ministry fully supports this training and hopes to work more with the EPA to bring similar programs to other schools.”

Schools attending the training include New Direction Academy, Peace Island Model Public School, Young Climate Change Initiative, Paynesville Seventh Day Adventist High School, and Paynesville Community Elementary and Junior and Senior High School.

Topics being taught include basic climate science, how to include children’s rights in NDCs, and how Liberia’s climate plans are set to reduce greenhouse gases, protect forests, and improve agriculture to withstand climate shocks.

The training will also include group discussions and presentations to help students better understand how they can take action now and in the future to protect Liberia’s environment.