On January 24, 2026, I visited Kankaylay Islamic Junior Secondary School in Makeni with other Emerging Leaders from Families Without Borders to mark the International Day of Education. From the moment we arrived, the pupils’ energy stood out. They were curious, attentive, and clearly excited that people had come to talk with them, not just talk at them.

We discussed climate justice and waste management. What surprised me most was how quickly the pupils connected these topics to their own lives. Some talked about trash around their homes and schools. Others asked questions about flooding and heat, and why these problems seem to affect their communities more. The conversation felt open and honest, and it was clear they wanted practical answers, not big theories.

One moment that stayed with me was when a pupil said they had never realized that simple actions, like proper waste disposal, could protect their health and the environment. That small shift in understanding made the discussion feel meaningful. It wasn’t about teaching facts but about helping them see their role in the bigger picture.

What made the day special was the level of engagement. The pupils were not shy. They shared ideas, challenged points, and listened closely. It reminded me that young people are ready to take responsibility when given the space and respect to do so.

Leaving the school, I felt encouraged. Spending time with the pupils and seeing their interest in climate justice reinforced why this work matters. Education, in moments like this, becomes more than lessons in a classroom. It becomes a shared experience that can shape how young people think and act in their communities.