purpose and a renewed sense of belonging. As a Ghanaian, working with the Center for Sustainable
Transformation (CeST) in Accra has been a particularly meaningful experience. This journey isn't just about
professional growth; it’s about contributing to the sustainability and future of my homeland"
Keziah Al-Hassan, Honours Bachelor of Social Sciences in Political Science
Internship Country: Ghana
Canadian NGO: AFS Interculture Canada
Local NGO: Center for Sustainable Transformation (CeST)
CeST is an environmental NGO dedicated to fostering sustainable development and environmental education across Ghana. Established with the mission to address pressing environmental challenges, CeST collaborates with the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and operates with endorsements from the Ghana Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Ghana Education Service (GES). Our work aligns closely with
the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those focused on environmental sustainability.
Our programs include the Eco-Schools Program, which promotes sustainable practices in primary and secondary schools; the Young Reporters for the Environment (YRE), which engages youth in environmental journalism; and the Eco-Campus program, which integrates sustainability into higher education institutions. These initiatives are more than projects—they are movements contributing to a greener, more sustainable
future for Ghana.
On my first day, I had the pleasure of accompanying my team to Accra Royal High, one of our partner schools. We conducted a workshop on implementing sustainable practices, marking the midpoint of an eco-competition that will run until July. This competition challenges students to think creatively and practically about sustainability, transforming their campuses into greener, more eco-friendly spaces. Last Friday’s visit to
Labalwashie, another partner school, was inspiring. We were there for an environmental cleanup challenge, a hands-on project to instil a sense of responsibility and ownership of the environment among the students. What struck me most was the bravery and dedication of these young students, especially when dealing with the dirtiest areas, like the polluted gutters. Their efforts drew both admiration and astonishment from onlookers as they pulled out heaps of junk. The cleanup challenge was more than just picking up trash; it was a testament to the power of community and the potential for education to drive tangible development. It exemplified how working together can bring about significant change, fostering connections and building a sense of shared responsibility for our environment.
Partnering with schools like Labalwashie and Accra Royal High highlights the importance of education in cultivating a generation committed to a cleaner, greener planet. Seeing the students’ enthusiasm and dedication has been a profound reminder of why this work matters. It’s about empowering the next generation to take charge of their future, to be the change-makers in their communities.
As I continue my internship with CeST, I am filled with optimism and pride. This journey is more than a professional endeavour; it’s a personal mission to contribute to the sustainable transformation of Ghana. I hope that the work I do today lays the foundation for a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow. I am honoured to be a part of this transformative journey.