In this episode, Dr Andrew Simmons (Former Deputy Director and Ag Director of Youth Affairs at the Commonwealth Secretariat, London) shed light on the impacts of climate change on young people. He pointed out the vulnerabilities and options for adaptation. He re-emphasised the vulnerability of Africa and highlighted the reasons for the vulnerabilities. Some of the point raised includes Poverty and corrupt practices, lack of clear and pragmatic knowledge by relevant stakeholders in the African climate discuss, and shortage in social development knowledge. Whilst arguing that the most vulnerable are the least concerned, he said that lack of clear methodology for adaptation and mitigation is another factor forcing the vulnerability limits of youths.
Most importantly is that national governments have to dwell so much on welfarist approach of dealing with projects which have the tendency of forcing vulnerabilities. Furthermore, regional organisations and those responsible for climate solutions have a "Project Approach" towards climate change adaptation and mitigation which is not efficient. It is suggested that a pragmatic "Sustainable Programmatic Strategy" could provide more desired adaptation and mitigation solutions. Dr Simmons seizes the opportunity to call on developing countries to use the Glasgow meeting to hold those heavy polluters to account and ensure that the take-homes are clear and pragmatic.
Dr Justin Udie