Grant blog published 07 May 2026

International Day of Education Grants

To celebrate International Day of Education in Botanic Gardens, and the recently launched Declaration of Intent on Climate Action Education, BGCI and the Korea National Arboretum provided a number of grants to BGCI members undertaking education activities aligned with the climate declaration.

This blog provides an overview of one of the projects funded – Roots of climate action: Empowering youth through plant-based climate education in Liberia.

The project

Global REACH is currently executing the innovative “Roots Climate Action” project in Ganta City, Nimba County, with an emphasis on integrating climate education into school systems through hands-on, plant-based learning experiences. Following the approval of our grant in March 2026 and the subsequent inception meetings, we have actively begun engaging partner schools. This engagement involves a series of structured awareness sessions, practical training workshops, and the establishment of dedicated school climate gardens that serve as living laboratories for students.

Our multifaceted approach intertwines traditional classroom learning with actionable environmental initiatives. Students are provided with a comprehensive introduction to critical topics, including the science of climate change, biodiversity conservation, and the vital role of plants in sequestering carbon. These theoretical lessons are complemented by tangible activities such as tree planting, nursery establishment, and ecosystem restoration projects within their school grounds, allowing students to actively participate in real-world environmental stewardship.

A pivotal component of our project is the formation of “Youth Climate Ambassador” (YCA) groups. Through a rigorous selection process, students are identified and trained to serve as peer educators and environmental leaders in their schools. To date, our efforts have successfully identified and engaged multiple ambassadors, ensuring balanced gender representation and fostering active participation, ownership, and resilience among youth. These young leaders are empowered to conduct awareness activities and motivate their peers to take effective climate action within their communities.

We are committed to collaborating closely with school administrations that demonstrate a strong dedication to integrating plant-based climate education into curricula throughout Liberia. This collaboration fosters a culture of sustainability and aims to create an enduring impact that extends beyond the immediate project duration.

As we approach June 12, we are planning a series of activities to showcase student leadership and resilience, foster community engagement, and implement practical conservation initiatives. These activities will not only raise awareness but also highlight the impactful efforts students have undertaken, reflecting their commitment to resilience and proactive climate action. We believe that by spotlighting these initiatives, we can inspire broader community involvement and enhance the educational experience in environmental stewardship.