At Adiembra D/A Junior High School in the Atwima Mponua District, young minds are proving that change begins with creativity and learning.

Under the Gower Street Project – Partnerships for Forest Protection and Livelihoods in a Changing Climate, Rights and Advocacy Initiatives Network (RAIN) organized a plastic recycling practical workshop for members of the Green Gold Environmental Club. The session formed part of RAIN’s commitment to promoting environmental awareness and climate-smart education among young learners.

Facilitated by Mr. Anthony Acquah of Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), the session began with an engaging presentation titled “Plastic Waste as a Resource.” Students explored the life cycle of plastics, their environmental and health impacts, and how improper disposal leads to flooding, soil infertility, and pollution. They learned that Ghana imports over 10,000 metric tonnes of plastic annually, with nearly 73% ending up as waste — powerful context that deepened their understanding of the scale of the challenge.

Through questions like “What is climate change?” and “How does plastic affect farming?”, the students connected classroom knowledge with real-world issues, realizing that protecting the environment starts with individual action. Many pledged to reduce single-use plastics and even organize a community clean-up exercise — a testament to their growing environmental responsibility.

The excitement peaked during the hands-on recycling practical, where students, guided by Anthony and the RAIN team turned discarded sachet rubbers and bottles into waste rubber dustbins. Using tools and materials such as wire mesh, thread, needles, cane, scissors, gloves, and binding wire whilst working in teams, they measured, stitched, and reinforced wire mesh with recycled materials, discovering how waste could be transformed into something useful and beautiful.

Their creativity, teamwork, and curiosity were truly inspiring. By the end, they had completed one functional dustbin and nearly finished a second — but more importantly, they had gained a mindset of innovation and stewardship for the environment.

RAIN extends sincere appreciation to the Mr. Anthony Acquah, Adiembra D/A JHS, and Madam Sarah Afram, the club’s patron, for their continued collaboration in nurturing a generation of environmentally conscious youth ready to turn challenges into opportunities.