In honor of Earth Day on April 22nd, the Global Schools Program (GSP) is excited to launch the “One Advocate, One Planet” campaign. With this in mind, we asked our advocates to share quotes on how they are using education as a tool to save and protect the world from the challenges of climate change, what inspires them, and why it is so important to take care of our planet for future generations. Find here what they had to say:
“The world needs healing, and this begins with quality education, quality mindset, and positive behavioral change towards a sustainable world. I have been able to use my project to save my students and school. We now have a school that plants trees, engages the school garden, and recycles and upcycles plastic bottles. We have no alternative earth, and I will take care of it.”- Ojuoluwa Oluwatobiloba, Nigeria
“Throughout our Individuals and societies discipline, my team and I incorporate SDG goals into our learning units to support our students’ learning and ensure an in-depth understanding of our global and local issues. Our students participate in raising awareness about these issues or taking action to eliminate them or their impact on their communities. From grade 6 to grade 9, students have been exploring their relationship as global citizens to achieve the SDGs and to what extent sustainable actions in city planning promote prosperity in the development of urban planning. We are educating for a higher purpose and a meaningful one.”- Elyana Zawaideh, Jordan
“The mistake was to think the Earth was ours when in fact, we belong to the Earth-Nicanor Parra.”- Stephanie Arias Catalán, Chile
“Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time, and education is the key to finding solutions. By investing in education, we can equip future generations with the knowledge and skills to create a more sustainable and equitable world.”- Nam Ngo Thanh, Vietnam
“When children are taught and equipped with the right knowledge on climate action, we build a better future for ourselves and mother earth. I educate children that will be a frontier to see to the end of climate change, where we all live happy lives.”- Oluwasegun Ogunsakin, Nigeria
“The sun sets, and the rain ensures our survival as the plants develop, but when the trees are cut down, we won't be able to. When we cut the trees, we shorten our life.”- Salim Maruf, Nigeria
“Little drops of water make the mighty ocean.”- Ming Yao Hsiung, Taiwan
“In my school, we celebrate World Water Day and World Earth Day. In all degrees, we start a project that includes SDGs. Each level prepares term project and action plan for sustainable development.”- SEDEN MIHCIOĞLU, Turkey
“As a program manager, I educate young people about the SDGs to inspire them to take action within their communities so they can make positive impacts on people's livelihoods. The socially responsible projects create positive behavior change and empower others to also make a difference so we can achieve equity for all. SDG education engages our youth, and it helps them to understand the issues we face as a community and creates aspirations so they can become future leaders for a better planet.”- Sarah Steel, England
“Education is the key to eliminating gender inequality, reducing poverty, creating a sustainable planet, preventing needless deaths and illness, and fostering peace. And in a knowledge economy, education is the new currency by which nations maintain economic competitiveness and global prosperity. As Global Schools Advocates, we have the mandate to spread the Education for Sustainable Development campaign in Educational institutions and to ensure that climate change is known to every child and youth. Education is the only weapon we have to use. In my case, I use debate competitions to address these complex global issues.”- Akansasira Junior Victor, South Sudan
“Recalling the words of Greta Thunberg: I want you to act as if the house is on fire, because it is. Let’s ACT NOW”- MERVE ÜNAL, Turkey
“Educators can help students understand their role as global citizens and their power to make a difference. Through engagements with local communities, advocacy campaigns, and other forms of environmental activism, students can work to promote sustainability and protect the planet.” - Edwin A. Quiñosa, Jr., Philippines
"Education is not just about learning facts and figures, but about developing critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities that are essential for addressing the complex challenges of climate change. Education is the key to unlocking the power of innovation and technology to create a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable world for future generations." - James Kidiga, Tanzania
“Schooling can inspire people to change their attitudes and conduct; it also helps them to make informed decisions. In the classroom, young people can be taught the impact of global warming and learn how to adapt to climate change.” - Naila Fahim, Pakistan
“Let’s use Education for Climate Change, for Sustainable Development, for protection of the climate through awareness.” - AMOS O. OUMA, Kenya
“I ignite the flame of awareness to empower my students towards their journey to a sustainable future.” - Anubha Mehta, Singapore
“Education to tackle climate change can be implemented through a toolkit available for everyone, pens and pencils! As teachers, we use our writing tools to challenge climate challenges from the grassroots.” - ELIZABETH CHINEME EBOH, Nigeria
“HUMANITY FOR ALL: One Earth, One World.” - Dr. George M. De La Cruz, Philippines
"The future we desire depends on the effort we exert in saving the environment. We are responsible for the safety of the environment. Let’s guard it well.” - Stella Gyimaah Larbi, Ghana
“Encouraging my learners and community to plant trees and grass has helped us reduce the effects of climate change like soil erosion.” - AKAMPA SECRET, Uganda
“I’m using education to protect our world in different ways with my students. Every day, I remind them to switch off the lights, to take care and not disturb the little lizards in the school gardens, and to use the composter with fruit waste that we use to plant our own fruits and vegetables. It’s beautiful to see they are the ones that tell me, “Teacher, we have to switch off the lights and take care of the planet." I know that we have to do more and more, but I always tell them that I'm proud that we are doing our part. Little by little, there’s an improvement. The children of today that will be the adults of tomorrow are trying so hard.” - Silvia Neira Varela, Spain
“Through initiatives such as beach cleaning, our school is taking action to promote environmental awareness and instill a deeper understanding of the crucial role we all play in protecting the world from the challenges of climate change. By integrating sustainability into our curriculum and promoting community engagement, we are equipping our students with the tools they need to become environmental advocates and global citizens.” - Mariano Zuk, Japan
“In our school, learning environments are intentionally created where students exercise agency as they focus on specific targets of chosen SDGs.” - Tracey Wallace, Australia
“My motto is Education to save the planet. Education is not just a key to unlocking doors; it is also a key to unlocking solutions to the challenges of climate change. From the Classroom to the planet, let’s all join the education revolution to combat climate change! Together, let's unleash the power of knowledge and create a greener, more sustainable world." - Chryssanthe Sotiriou, Greece
“A sustainable future can best be achieved today in our classroom by modeling the young minds towards a sustainability-based lifestyle. Education for Sustainable Development is the only solution to all the fears and panics of an endangered world, and the classroom is the only channel to save Earth, our endangered planet." - Ukaegbu Jacinta, Nigeria
"The power of education lies in its ability to spark change. By teaching our communities about the importance of sustainability and responsible living, we can create a ripple effect that leads to a healthier planet and a brighter future for all. Through education, we can inspire a new generation of environmental advocates and leaders. By providing them with the knowledge and tools they need to take action, we can create a more sustainable and just world for all." - Mohamed Helmy Tolba, Egypt
“I'm incorporating SDGs in my lessons towards promoting sustainable development without compromising future generations.” - Providence DUSENGE, Rwanda
“Let’s follow 4 A's to achieve Agenda2030- Advocacy, Activism, Action, and Avoid Plastics.” - ABHILASHA SINGH, UAE
“Be the change of climate change, plant a legacy." - SANDHYA PRASANTH, UAE
“The fight for climate change begins in the classroom. Only through example and passion can our future adults truly be committed to protecting our planet.” - Rosie Hernández-Morales, Spain
“A child's learning is not complete if their learning does not contribute to their heart, the heart of the community, and that of the planet.” - Ngozi Chinwe Awazie, Nigeria
“Land is the best art. Education, it's an artist!” - Ndum Wulekiawi Linda Songbi, Cameroon
“Tomorrow is not yours. Let’s think globally and act locally" - GÜLAY EROL, Turkey
“Education is the most powerful key to success. I choose to be an educator to serve humanity and have the best place to live. As our mother earth needs special care from us, if we don't keep to protect it, we have no way to go. So imparting and advocating climate action is part of why I’m an educator.” - Nuradeen Mukhtar, Nigeria
“Education is the only tool that can wipe off the ignorance of the harm being done to our planet. There is no plan B, but if we do not propagate it through education, then we will be doomed. As educationists, it is our duty to spread this ray of hope and overcome the darkness.” - Shruti Sharma, India
“Let students come up with action plans: nothing works wonders like feeling that you are an important part of something and owning it. Let’s sow the seeds of awareness by integrating ESD into every opportunity in the classroom. The Future will only become a reality if we focus on caring for our environment in the Present. Connecting caring for the climate to the individual’s own goals makes it become part of their reality and, as such, part of their own mission.” - Patricia Bergström, Spain
"Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world. Climate change is the most profound crisis humanity has ever faced, and it requires all of us to become lifelong learners, to deepen our knowledge and understanding, and to work together to create a just and sustainable future for all." - Bengisu Cura, Turkey
“We, teachers, must show and not only tell how to take care of Mother Earth. It is in our actions that children learn how to love the planet. We must make them realize that earth is where the heart is, always.” - Jerome Legaspi Duque, Philippines
"We are using education to raise awareness through Voice for Planet, a students outreach program to community public schools for action against the effects of climate change for a safer and more sustainable Planet.” - Mahmud Shehu, Nigeria
“You are never too small to make a positive impact!” - Roisin Casey, United Arab Emirates
“Mother Earth, I love you. You provide everything for us. We need to preserve you for future generations.” - Nabuduwa Grace Olive Musingo, Uganda
“As we learn about the challenges of climate change, let us remember that education is not just a key to unlocking personal success but also a powerful tool to protect our planet. Through education, we can empower ourselves and others to take action and create a sustainable future for all. Let's use this quote as a guiding principle in our classroom, and strive to learn not just for ourselves, but for the betterment of the world around us." - Mary(Maura) Carmel Murphy, Brunei and Ireland
"I am honored to be a Global School Advocate for One Advocate One Planet, where I have the opportunity to ignite a passion for environmental sustainability in my learners and community. Together, we champion the use of sustainable materials, repurpose single-use plastics, and spread awareness through dynamic media campaigns and grassroots movements. By joining hands, we can create a brighter future for our planet and ensure that it thrives for generations to come." - Martha Toluwalope, Jesuleke, Nigeria
“I have informed my students and school community about SDGs. Awareness-raising studies have been added to our curriculum. I feel that I have a tremendous power that can change the world. I have only one planet, and I have no time. I am the advocate of our only home, Earth. I inspire, inform, and we take action for a better world.” - AYÇA ÖZKARDEŞ, Turkey
“It’s not climate change that needs to be tackled but our attitudes toward the factors that constitute the change, we heard and have the solutions to the problems; let's bundle them and implement them.” - RABIU MAKANJUOLA TAIRU, Nigeria
“Education for a Sustainable Future and Global Equality—all together, we can make our world better!” - Natalya Krassilnikova-Epp, Kyrgyzstan
“Schools are the perfect multipliers for an individual teacher's Earth conservancy efforts. Nothing beats a highly motivated group of students” - Milton Villarroel, USA
“Guy McPherson said if you think that the environment is less important than the economy, try holding your breath while you count your money.” - Emmanuel Abua, Nigeria
“Earth Day should encourage us to make our planet a more sustainable place. Let’s ignite the fire of education in every breath, every word, and every step to make mother earth feel proud of us.” - Neetu Luthra, India
“One Day the Earth Will Ask Us
What Did You Do to Me?
And I Shall Say
I Gave You Generations Of Love
That Made You Green With Glow” - SHAHNAAZ OJHA, India
“We may not be staying here for long, yet life will go on after us.
Protect today for tomorrow.
Learn, teach, save.
Sowing a seed a day keeps the pollution away.
East or West, Planet Earth is the Best.
Go Green and Save Green Save the Earth and Save the Future.
Every day is Earth Day.” - Jenny Chavush, Turkey
“The earth's our home. Let's protect it:
-Be aware of environmental issues and take action to prevent them
-More green nature for a climate balanced future
-The lesser the pollution, the healthier the environment” - SENGE Christina SAME, Cameroon
“One Life, One Planet - Value your breath with Earth
Stop Burdening the Earth
Care before you share Mother Earth
If not we, then who?” - Dhivya Kirupa, India
“Enlightened and Adequately INFORMED MINDS make the Earth SAFE for ALL.” - Shola SHEDRACH FALOYE, Nigeria
“Education is the most powerful tool we have to ensure the survival of life on earth. A handful of motivated students have the power to transform a community and to conserve an ecosystem.” - Shubhra Shukla, Singapore
“We celebrate world water day, world day. In all degrees, we start a project that includes SDGs. Each level prepare term project and action plan for sustainable development.” - SEDEN MIHCIOĞLU, Turkey
"Allowing the youth to take up space and to voice out their ideas about environmental issues and climate change through collective conversation in schools will definitely spark an action that will create a ripple of impacts." - Mariel Precious Joy C. Gardose
“Post-pandemic education needs to explore opportunities for our children to learn what really matters from life skills that help them build a resilient, adaptive character, ready to take on the ever-changing challenges of the future world, through learning, re-learning, and unlearning.” - Hatem Mahmoud, Saudi Arabia
“Through transformative education, awareness, and by building a curriculum that incorporates climate education, I am teaching my students to be change agents and come up with innovative solutions to tackle climate crisis challenges locally, and with time, they will have an impact globally.” - Javeria Rana, Pakistan
“I am lucky to be an Environmental Educator. I teach Environmental Sciences. In my classes, my students learn what serious issues our World is suffering from, especially Climate Change; and I let them discover how they can take action locally to help fix those issues. A simple action, for example, switching the lights off when you are not using them, can help!!!” - Marcela Alejandra Villan, Argentina
“Children by nature have the potential to bring in positive changes in the world. I am using education as a tool or a means to ignite that potential through activities and sessions that present them with facts and opportunities to explore and implement solutions on a reliable platform.” - Murali Krishnan Jayaraman, India
“Becoming a changemaker in ensuring a safer environment and our mother earth's safety and quality is what I am anticipating to achieve through imparting knowledge to our younger generation, for they are the future who will take care of the same mother earth. Thus, planting trees is now part of my natural workday life.” - Nuradeen Mukhtar, Nigeria
At Global Schools, we are immensely proud of the change our Advocates are igniting around the world to protect the environment and the Earth. We congratulate you all on your efforts and thank you for participating in this campaign.
