About 220 young people have completed specialised training in climate science and geospatial technologies under the Africa Climate Collaborative at the University of Ghana, aimed at building a new generation of professionals equipped to tackle climate challenges.
The three-week programme, organised in collaboration with the University’s Department of Geography and Resource Development, focused on practical skills in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Geo Intelligence, Earth Observation, climate change, equity and social inclusion.
Project Manager of the Africa Climate Collaborative, Dr. Joseph Clottey, said the initiative attracted 534 applications, from which participants were selected through a competitive process.
According to him, the programme deliberately prioritised the inclusion of young women, persons with disabilities, refugees and individuals from displaced communities to ensure that climate solutions reflect the needs of vulnerable populations.
Dr. Clottey said participants were introduced to practical tools for analysing climate data, identifying climate hotspots and generating evidence that can support planning and policy decisions.
He noted that beyond technical training, the programme sought to empower participants to contribute meaningfully to climate adaptation efforts in their communities and provide data-driven insights for decision-makers.
The training combined virtual and in-person sessions, giving participants hands-on experience in the use of geospatial technologies and climate information.
A participant who completed the GIS track said the programme had strengthened her ability to carry out climate mapping and modelling, skills she intends to apply in her research and professional career.
Another participant, who studied climate change equity and social inclusion, said the training deepened her understanding of how climate impacts often affect women, children and other vulnerable groups more severely during disasters such as floods.
She said future climate policies and interventions must be designed to address those inequalities to ensure that no group is left behind.
The programme ended with a graduation ceremony where participants received certificates after successfully completing their respective courses.
