Our Logic Model

Strategic Youth Network for Development (SYND) is a youth-oriented NGO in Ghana championing youth inclusion in the governance of natural resources and the environmental sector. Our core mission is to amplify youth voices, empowering them to shape policies for a climate-secure future. We equip youth leaders with capacities and platforms to engage in Climate Change, Biodiversity, Forestry, and Renewable Energy.

OUR SHARED VISION

 

We envision that young people and future generations in Ghana will have healthy ecosystems supporting their livelihoods and well-being, with natural resources used sustainably.

 

THE CHALLENGE

Our core challenge is the silence of youth voices within the pivotal climate and environmental sectors. This silence not only stifles fresh ideas but also jeopardises the sustainability of the world we’re set to inherit.

OUR MISSION

Our mission is to ensure that youth voices are not just heard but become integral in shaping the world we’re destined to steward.

 

One of the ways we advocate for youth perspectives on climate justice is through our Youth in Natural Resources and Environmental Governance (Youth-NREG) platform. This platform offers opportunities for youth to be heard, learn, share ideas, and collaborate on climate cum environmental crisis solutions. Through genuine youth-led and collective climate action, we help build a sustainable future that considers present realities.

 

OUR STRATEGIC DIRECTION

STRATEGIC DIRECTION 1 (BIODIVERSITY):

Improve biodiversity and ecological resilience in coastal communities by engaging youth in mangrove restoration and sea turtle conservation efforts in western and southeastern Ghana.

 

 

  1. Regenerate 10 hectares of degraded mangrove ecosystems by the year 2028.

  2. Cultivate a sense of stewardship and responsibility towards endangered species, with the aim of inspiring a new generation of environmental advocates by empowering and engaging young people in sea turtle conservation and biodiversity policies in the western and southeastern part of Ghana.

  3. Decreasing the exploitation of mangroves and sea turtles by implementing supplementary livelihood activities in the western and southeastern regions of Ghana. 

STRATEGIC DIRECTION 2 (CLIMATE CHANGE)

Position Ghanaian youth as active stakeholders in achieving Ghana’s climate ambitions through advocacy and by promoting youth-led innovative climate solutions.

 


  1. Raise and empower 400 children to become climate champions through quality education by 2028.


  2. Advocate for the active participation of Youth-NREG members in the governance of our natural resources and environmental sector at national and sub-national levels.


  3. Advocate for Improved air quality and health outcomes for women in rural areas and market places by the end of 2028 


  4. To empower and engage 50 young climate activists in Ghana to actively participate in the formulation and implementation of climate  response programs at the  local level by the end of  2028


  5. Establish a network of 50 young farmers campaigning for agro ecology as a viable climate adaptation and mitigation solution for Africa by 2028.

STRATEGIC DIRECTION 3 - (ENERGY)

Promote the utilisation of renewable energy technologies, such as kinetic and solar power, in select regions of Ghana.

 

  1. Encourage the use of energy-efficient products among citizens in Ghana, while also advocating for the reduction of inefficient products.

  2. Encouraging the growth of green businesses and fostering entrepreneurship among young people.

  3. Monitor and influence the policies, target, and track Energy Access projects funded by Multilateral Development Banks, specifically the World Bank and AfDB, within the West Africa region.

  4. raise awareness about the benefits of clean cooking solutions and encourage their widespread adoption across the country

STRATEGIC DIRECTION 4 - (FORESTRY):

Combat deforestation and forest degradation by empowering youth to lead in sustainable forest management practices.

 

  1. Pilot restoration project to rehabilitate 200 hectares of degraded forest land. 

  2. Raise awareness among Ghanaian youth regarding the detrimental impacts of galamsey and other factors driving deforestation on the environment, communities, and forests.

  3. Train a minimum of 500 young individuals in sustainable forest management practices, bushfire fighting/management, and livelihood skills including honey bee production and briquette production.

  4. Improve the involvement and skills of young people in REDD+ projects within the designated hotspot intervention areas (HIAs) of Ghana.

STRATEGIC DIRECTION 5 - (COMMUNICATION):

Becoming a powerful youth voice in the Natural Resources and Environmental Governance sector. 

 

  1. Utilise social media, blogs, and other digital platforms to raise awareness about environmental issues and amplify youth voices.

  1. Partner with other organisations who share our vision to enhance our influence and expand our reach to a wider audience.