Introducing Our Young Sustainability Champions to Online Journalism
After putting in great effort to prepare the Young Sustainability Champions by teaching them
about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the importance of protecting our planet
from global challenges, especially those directly affecting our environment, we proudly
introduced a new and exciting direction four weeks ago. We introduced our very first
journalism and sustainability initiative, which will serve as our platform to share our message
with the world: a children-led online newspaper. This marked the beginning of something truly
special.
During the session, the children explored what a newspaper really is, practiced writing and
speaking in English, and discovered how journalism can be used as a tool for change. They also
chose their roles based on their interests and strengths, becoming writers, photographers,
presenters and editors.
This session laid the foundation for everything that followed and officially kicked off our
journey toward creating a newspaper led entirely by children, a platform where their voices,
ideas, and solutions can be heard. It marked the beginning of a journey where children do not
wait for the future to act — they start shaping it today.
Learning How Journalists Find Information
During the second week of our Newspaper Writing Project, students built on their
understanding of what a newspaper is by exploring an important question: Where does the
information in newspapers come from?
To answer this, the lesson focused on the research process, starting with observation as the
first and most important skill for young journalists.
Students were given different pictures showing real environmental challenges, including
deforestation, poaching, overfishing, plastic pollution in water sources, and heavy industries
located close to residential areas. Acting as reporters, the children carefully observed each
image, identified problems, and discussed what they noticed.
They practiced taking short notes based on their observations and then used those notes to
write reports, just like real journalists do when preparing stories. This activity helped them
understand how facts are gathered before writing an article.
Through this hands-on exercise, students strengthened their critical thinking, observation skills,
and English writing while learning that good journalism begins with careful research.
By the end of the session, the young reporters were able to confidently observe, record
information, and turn their findings into short environmental reports — another step forward
in creating their own children’s newspaper.
Learning Beyond Borders
In our third week, the Young Sustainability Champions continued their exciting journey into
both journalism and the Sustainable Development Goals. With growing confidence, the children
deepened their understanding of how newspapers are written, how stories are researched, and
how information can be used as a powerful tool to educate communities and protect our
planet.
But this week brought something even more special, a real-world connection beyond the
classroom.
We were honored to welcome two inspiring guests from Sweden: Olivia Steen, a sustainability
consultant working with companies to make everyday products more environmentally friendly,
and Annika Steen, who supports an eye clinic that collects used eyeglasses and redistributes
them to people who cannot afford them, especially in African communities.
Their visit opened the children’s eyes to how sustainability is practiced in different countries
and in everyday life. From responsible business practices to simple acts of kindness like reusing
and sharing glasses, the students learned that protecting the planet also means caring for
people.
The session quickly turned into an engaging exchange. The children asked thoughtful questions,
eager to understand how young people in other parts of the world contribute to environmental
protection. It was inspiring to see their curiosity grow as they realized they are part of a global
movement for change.
Week three reminded us all that sustainability has no borders, and that even small actions can
make a big difference.
Our champions are not only learning how to report the news… they are learning how to
become the newsmakers of a better future.
First Monthly Exam
After weeks of learning about the SDGs and newspaper writing, four marked an important
milestone: the first monthly exam! These monthly assessments are designed to help our Young
Sustainability Champions sharpen their memory, thinking skills, and confidence.
The test covered SDGs, newspaper writing, and English, giving the children a chance to
demonstrate all they’ve learned so far. We were thrilled to see their dedication and effort shine
through, nearly all the students scored above 50% of the total marks!
This exam was more than just a test; it was a celebration of their progress, curiosity, and
growing skills. We are excited to continue supporting them as they prepare for future
challenges and opportunities.