Background

The deterioration of the natural environment is one of the principal concerns of young people worldwide as it has direct implications for their well-being both now and in the future. The natural environment must be maintained and preserved for both present and future generations. The causes of environmental degradation must be addressed. The environmentally friendly use of natural resources and environmentally sustainable economic growth will improve human life. Sustainable development has become a key element in the programmes of youth organizations throughout the world. While every segment of society is responsible for maintaining the environmental integrity of the community, young people have a special interest in maintaining a healthy environment because they will be the ones to inherit it.

It is in this background that the influence of young people in our institutions of learning must be brought to bear in the quest to ensure sustainable development. The academic syllabuses in universities   have a lot about environment and this is the basis of developing a “Mazingira Challenge” that shall taste the practical understanding of students on the current environmental affairs in Kenya and the rest of the world in the form  of questions . This shall enhance their understanding and also help motivate the many youths who are interested to be involved with environmental affairs in a more Fun way.

We are aware that there exists a disconnect between what is studied in class with the current environmental and climate change issues facing the country and the world in general , for example the current trends of destructions in forests, their histories, environmental friendly enterprises and many more . The Challenge shall bring together all Universities across the country thus rallying a major constituency of the youth to take part in maintaining the environment for now and the future.

The Institutions of learning represents a major blood artery that can carry this culture into the mindsets of Kenya and into the new generation. The use of a role models from within this section, in this case Miss Universities, is necessary to help create an atmosphere where others from this section will take notice and thereby making awareness and positive action more likely.    

It is inspiring when young people from around the world use their knowledge, sense of motivation and energy to bring about action for the environment. Young people bring a fresh outlook to environmental activism. The ultimate aim is to award the winning university not only with a trophy but with tree seedlings as the highest prize to be planted to mark the climax of the event.