This activity was chosen as a powerful and affordable way to make a difference for the environment. As we know, trees improve air quality by producing oxygen, they moderate the effects of sun and wind, and they clean the air by trapping dust, pollen, and other pollutants.
Uganda is a country blessed by the presence of many amazing trees and for this initiative, the tree species selected were Ashoka and Hibiscus.
President Minaz Jamal commented that “The National Council's (Youth and Sports portfolio's) collaboration with the Aga Khan Education Service is meaningful and an important initiative for our young. It fosters a sense of ownership, respect, and leadership and encourages a connection to place. We are all vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, regardless of which continent we live on and the young should understand that the responsibility of reducing emissions will ultimately fall on their shoulders."
As a precursor to the exciting day, the Scouts and Guides watched the short film about communities residing in Northern Pakistan entitled “Close to Home,” written, directed, and voiced by Prince Aly Muhammad.
In October 2017, Prince Aly Muhammad visited the north of Pakistan to learn more about the effects of natural disasters. During his seven-day trip to the region, Prince Aly Muhammad met with numerous families whose quality of life has been enhanced by the AKDN. The film is his personal account of his discussions with the communities in the region and how the AKDN is partnering with them to find solutions to the problems caused by natural disasters. The Scouts and Guides found the film educational and inspiring and also enjoyed participating in tree planting.
It is our hope that this activity will inspire more youth to acquire environmentally-friendly attitudes and values to act as powerful and effective transformative change agents for a better world.
