The School of Intersectional Ecotheology and Ecojustice Witness (SIEEW) convened on 24 September through 13 October, bringing passionate discussions, local immersive experiences, and a budding network of young environmental advocates.
Drawing 22 participants from Council for World Mission (CWM) member churches and the All Africa Conference of Churches, the school was held both online and in-person in Lusaka, Zambia.
The school has been developed to address the critical issue of climate justice by equipping young people with the knowledge and skills to champion climate justice in their churches and communities.
Fostering a new generation of environmental advocates, the school recognizes the urgent need to address climate change and its impact on the most vulnerable communities. A key aspect of the programme is an immersive experience within local communities founded on the philosophy that lasting change requires firsthand experience and empathy with those affected.
Rev. Daimon Mkandawire, CWM Mission Secretary for Ecology and Economy, said that the School of intersectional Ecotheology and Ecojustice Witness marks a momentous occasion for CWM. “It’s a manifestation of our commitment to addressing climate justice and empowering the youth to be catalysts of change,” he said. “We firmly believe that the future of our planet rests on educating and inspiring our youth.”
One young participant said the time spent in local communities was an eye-opener. “It’s one thing to study climate justice academically, but to witness its real-world impact is transformative,” she said. “I’m leaving with a renewed sense of purpose and a deep connection to the communities we aim to serve.”
The young people collectively reported that they left the school with the ultimate goal of making a tangible impact on climate justice, both in their churches and the wider community. “This is just the beginning of a movement that will continue to gather momentum and contribute to a brighter and more sustainable future,” the group reported.