ISF Series: Climate Awareness Workshop at the University of Lagos

The 2024 Pulitzer Center’s Impact Seed Fund project in Nigeria was spearheaded by The Olympus Consciousness Initiative (TOCI) in partnership with the Institute of Nigeria China Development Studies (INCDS) at the University of Lagos. The goal of the initiative was to increase climate awareness and advocacy within the University of Lagos community through a series of impactful activities, including surveys, stakeholder engagements, a climate awareness webinar, the production of a documentary, and the launch of the Climate Awareness Amplifiers Network. These efforts successfully facilitated crucial conversations on climate change, sustainability, and the pivotal role of journalism in shaping public discourse.

The Pulitzer Center’s reporting was central to the project’s design and implementation, particularly in the creation of pre- and post- workshop surveys. The investigative stories provided real-world case studies, guiding the development of survey questions that assessed participants’ awareness and attitudes toward climate change. Additionally, Pulitzer resources played a vital role in shaping interviews with subject-matter experts, ensuring that the project was both rooted in global best practices and responsive to local climate challenges.

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A standout moment of the initiative was the Climate Change Awareness Webinar, where Pulitzer Center Grantees played an essential role. The session, which focused on the power of storytelling in climate advocacy, explored how compelling narratives can influence policy, shift public perceptions, and inspire grassroots action. Grantees Precious Williams and Adetokunbo Abiola shared their experiences, illustrating how investigative climate reporting exposes environmental injustices and drives decision-making. Their insights deeply resonated with participants, emphasizing the importance of robust media engagement in climate action.

Throughout the project, University of Lagos students eagerly participated in a variety of activities, demonstrating a strong interest in climate storytelling and environmental solutions. Workshop sessions offered a platform for students to critically evaluate climate narratives, discuss policy implications, and brainstorm innovative sustainability ideas. A Climate Awareness Competition was also introduced, with award-winning categories for storytelling, idea pitching, and social media advocacy. This further encouraged students to creatively communicate their perspectives on climate action.

The success of these activities was evident in the enthusiasm and dedication displayed by participants. Many students expressed a renewed sense of urgency regarding climate change, spurred by the engaging discussions and hands-on opportunities. The project’s documentary, which will capture key moments from these activities, will culminate in a Screening Event, providing a powerful visual summary that underscores the importance of collective action in tackling climate challenges.

By leveraging Pulitzer Center stories, engaging expert voices, and empowering student-led initiatives, the ISF Africa 2024 project in Nigeria has established a sustainable model for climate education and advocacy. The initiative not only raised awareness but also equipped students and stakeholders to take informed, actionable steps toward addressing climate change. As a result, the momentum for climate consciousness will continue to grow both within the University of Lagos community and beyond. 

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