By Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Plateau State Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA), in partnership with the School of Politics, Policy and Governance (SPPG), Abuja, and the Plateau State Ministry of Education, has launched the Green School Waste Framework in Jos as part of activities marking World Environment Day 2026.
The initiative emerged from a partnership request by students of the School of Politics, Policy and Governance as part of their community-focused capstone project aimed at developing practical solutions to pressing societal challenges.
Recognizing the growing environmental concerns associated with poor waste management practices, the students designed the Green School Waste Framework, a school-based environmental sustainability programme focused on promoting responsible waste disposal, recycling, and environmental consciousness among secondary school students across Plateau State.
PEPSA commended the School of Politics, Policy and Governance for conceptualizing and driving the initiative, describing it as one of the most impactful and socially relevant capstone projects due to its potential to create measurable environmental awareness and encourage behavioural change among young people.
The agency also expressed appreciation for the confidence reposed in it as a strategic partner in implementing the project.
According to PEPSA, the framework introduces practical environmental solutions, including the formation of eco-clubs, colour-coded waste sorting systems, recycling education, composting practices, and community advocacy programmes in selected public secondary schools within Jos.
A major highlight of the programme was the Inter-School Eco Debate Competition, which featured students from Government Secondary School Lamingo, Government Secondary School Hyei Rayfield, Government Secondary School Gwom, Government Secondary School Tudun Wada, and Government Secondary School Kyan Rikkos.
The debates provided a platform for students to discuss climate responsibility, sustainable waste management practices, and practical environmental solutions while fostering critical thinking and environmental leadership.
The initiative aligns with the 2026 World Environment Day theme, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” by demonstrating how nature-based solutions such as recycling, composting, environmental education, and community participation can contribute significantly to climate action and environmental sustainability.
PEPSA noted that the programme underscores the importance of raising environmentally conscious young leaders who understand that protecting the environment today is essential for securing a healthier and safer future for generations to come.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening environmental awareness, promoting sustainable waste management practices, and encouraging community-driven climate action through partnerships, education, advocacy, sanitation programmes, and other environmental initiatives across Plateau State.
As part of the World Environment Day celebration, PEPSA urged residents to take responsibility for protecting the environment through proper waste disposal, recycling, tree planting, maintaining clean surroundings, and actively participating in sanitation activities.
The agency emphasized that collective action and responsible environmental practices remain key to building a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable Plateau State for present and future generations.