Inter School Environmental Public Speaking Competition 2017

The main objectives of the Inter School Environmental Public Speaking Competition are: • To motivate students on various environmental issues • To develop public speaking skills, while enhancing student confidence • To serve as a platform for future generations to express their concern over the fragile environment and to find ways to preserve and protect it • To recognise the contribution made by the youth in the field of environmental protection One of the strongest tools used to affect change in the world is the power of speech. Utilising this effective tool, EEG’s ISEPSC also aids in personality development, building of self-confidence and improving public speaking skills - qualities that help students in the long run. Through the Competition, EEG also attempts to equip students with the right tools, perspectives and attitudes so they are successful in the fight against environmental degradation. The 2017 cycle of the ISEPSC witnessed the participation of 77 schools, comprising 517 students, teachers and guests. It is divided into the Sub-Senior category (13-15 years) and the Senior category (16-18 years). Students were provided with a choice of the following topics: Sub-Senior category: • People and Planet: Finding a Sustainable Balance • Quality Education: Roadmap to Sustainable Development Senior category: • Future of Power • Sustainable Food Systems: Understanding Food Security We have seen tremendous growth in the Competition since its inception in 2001. To demonstrate growth over the years, the following data for participating schools can be considered: • Cycle 1 2001: 37 participating schools and 300 attendees • Cycle 4 2004: 55 participating schools and 400 attendees • Cycle 13 2013: 62 participating schools and 366 attendees • Cycle 16 2016: 75 participating schools and 503 attendees • Cycle 17 2017: 77 participating schools and 517 attendees In 2017, EEG also made a conscious effort to organise a carbon neutral event. The total CO2 emission which was offset during this event, as confirmed by the Swiss climate protection organisation “MyClimate” and FARNEK, was 9.52 tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions. EEG has several plans in the pipeline to increase impact of this programme. With the right partnership, we would like to implement the following: • Invite experts in the field of sustainability and environmental conservation as judges. • Provide participating teams with more props such as proper stage, sound system, microphones, internet connection, lights and other tools to use as part of their presentations • Encourage participation from the more remote cities in the UAE • Open the Competition to schools from the wider Middle East countries We would also like to invite private sector entities to work with us in this highly impactful programme.