GIMPA Hosts Groundbreaking Youth Videography Program Addressing Climate Change

GHANA INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT AND PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION (GIMPA)

By Joyce Boahemaa Fosu

GIMPA has played host to the Ghana Youth Video Program on November 2, 2023. The event showcased a compelling documentary film created by talented young filmmakers from the program, focusing on the critical issue of climate change. The occasion drew a diverse audience of environmental advocates, youth activists, educators, and media professionals. The Ghana Youth Video Program stands out as an innovative effort to equip young Ghanaians with the skills and knowledge necessary for impactful storytelling through video production. By merging artistic expression with environmental advocacy, the program empowers aspiring filmmakers to drive change and inspire others to take action on environmental issues. The documentary, a product of the collaborative efforts between GIMPA, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate, Wilfrid Laurier University in Canada, and the Youth Climate Report, aimed to raise awareness and mobilise action to combat climate change in Ghana. It delved into the challenges faced by the country in the wake of a changing climate, emphasising the severe implications on ecosystems, agriculture, and livelihoods. Professor Samuel Kwaku Bonsu, the Rector of GIMPA, commended the initiative, highlighting its role in encouraging youth to appreciate their potential impact on addressing global climate change challenges. He stressed the collective responsibility in tackling climate change, urging the public to take the issue seriously and apply relevant resources to address the shared challenges.

Mark Terry, an Adjunct professor from York University, emphasised the power of film in amplifying concerns about the impact of climate change on people. Looking ahead, he shared plans to gather young filmmaker’s stories through video production, presenting them at the UN Climate Summit Cop 28 in Dubai. This, he believes, will enable policymakers to understand the climate change scenario in Africa and specifically in Ghana as narrated by the youth. Dr. Magnus Mfoafo-M’Carthy from the Wilfrid Laurier University stressed the urgency of addressing climate change and expressed gratitude to all involved in bringing the documentary to life. He underscored the importance of empowering youth to actively participate in finding sustainable solutions. Dr. Jeff Grischow, also from Wilfrid Laurier University, called for stronger connections over mere awareness of climate change. He commended the enthusiasm of the young filmmakers in Ghana and highlighted the recruitment process’s success. Following the documentary screening, a panel discussion featuring renowned environmentalists, local experts, and academia representatives took place. The dynamic exchange explored the film’s key messages, the impact of climate change on Ghana’s communities, and potential strategies to combat its effects. Attendees actively engaged in the discussion, fostering a sense of collaboration and collective responsibility. This groundbreaking event serves as a catalyst for change, inspiring individuals to make a difference and promoting a collective effort to combat climate change not only in Ghana but also on a global scale.