Climate office backs IBS debate

By JASON GIMA WURI
AS the schools debate organised by the Institute of Business Studies (IBS) gathers momentum, support and sponsorship have poured in from business houses and government agencies.
The latest entity to give its support was the Office of Climate Change and Development (OCCD) which gave K30,000 last Friday to sponsor the debate.
OCCD executive di­rector Dr Wari Iamo said the sponsorship included K25,000 cash and K5,000 worth of materials and information on climate change.
“The school debate competition will further develop a working relationship with IBS through the public-private partnership as per the Vision 2050,” Iamo said.
“The OCCD believes support from government agencies will empower the institute through extending the school debate competition to schools in other provinces and not just NCD.
“I believe what the institute is doing that now is to develop young children to become role mo­dels or leaders of tomorrow.
“Our involvement will inform and educate students by researching more into climate change topics and allow students to speak with confidence and authority on the subject,” he said.
IBS director Mick Nades said the debate was an avenue, “to tap into our children’s ability and bringing them out from their shells”.
“It’s all about developing leaders of tomorrow and it’s important to bring awareness to our schools.
“We are implementing the public private enterprise,” Nades said.
Enga Governor Peter Ipatas gave K35,313 for logistics when the debate goes to his province.
“In Enga, our priority is education and every opportunity there is to enhance the programme is welcome and we are happy to promote it in any way,” Ipatas said.