Session
Organizer 1: Civil Society, African Group
Speaker 1: 'Mashai Pelei, Civil Society, African Group
Speaker 2: Letsatsi Lekhooa, Civil Society, African Group
Speaker 3: Ramone Joalane, Civil Society, African Group
Classroom
Duration (minutes): 60
Format description: The 60-minute duration is best suited for this session as it provides sufficient time to present the core concepts, showcase examples, and engage participants in discussion. This time frame ensures that the session remains focused and productive, balancing information sharing with meaningful interaction without overwhelming attendees.
A. How can libraries in Southern Africa leverage digital platforms to promote climate change mitigation and sustainability in their communities? B. What role should governments and regional stakeholders play in supporting libraries as key players in advancing sustainable digital practices and climate resilience? C. How can policy frameworks integrate libraries into national and regional strategies for digital literacy, green technologies, and climate change adaptation?
What will participants gain from attending this session? Participants will gain valuable insights into the transformative role libraries can play in advancing climate change mitigation and sustainability through digital solutions. They will learn how libraries can serve as hubs for climate-related knowledge, promote digital literacy, and encourage the adoption of green technologies, particularly in Africa. The session will showcase innovative approaches and concrete examples of libraries successfully integrating climate resilience practices, offering attendees practical ideas to implement in their own regions. Additionally, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how collaboration between libraries, governments, and stakeholders can foster policy development and regional cooperation for sustainable digital innovation. Attendees will also hear diverse perspectives, particularly from library professionals, climate experts, and policymakers, enriching their knowledge of the intersection between digital technology and climate action. Ultimately, participants will leave with actionable insights and strategies for leveraging libraries as catalysts for sustainable change in their communities.
Description:
This session explores how libraries in Africa can drive climate change mitigation and sustainability through digital platforms. By providing access to climate-related knowledge, promoting digital literacy, and supporting green technologies, libraries can be key players in advancing sustainable practices. The discussion will highlight innovative approaches, best practices, and concrete examples of libraries integrating digital solutions to build climate resilience. Attendees will gain insights on fostering regional collaboration and policy development, with a focus on the role of libraries in empowering communities to adopt sustainable digital practices. The session will include diverse perspectives from library professionals, policymakers, and climate experts, enriching the conversation on sustainable digital innovation.
The session will raise awareness of libraries’ critical role in climate change mitigation and sustainability through digital platforms. Participants will gain actionable strategies for integrating libraries into national and regional policies, promoting digital literacy and green technologies. The session will foster collaboration between libraries, governments, and climate organisations to advance climate resilience in Southern Africa. Additionally, attendees will gain insights into best practices and concrete examples of libraries successfully integrating climate-related knowledge into their services, offering practical models for replication. Specific Outputs: 1. A policy brief outlining recommendations for embedding libraries in climate and sustainability strategies. 2. Development of regional partnerships between libraries, governments, and climate-focused organisations. 3. A networking platform for stakeholders to collaborate on library-driven climate action initiatives. 4. Potential for follow-up workshops to train library professionals on climate tools and resources.
Hybrid Format: To ensure an engaging hybrid session, we will use interactive tools like Slido or Mentimeter for live polling, Q&A, and idea sharing, enabling both onsite and online participants to engage equally. A dedicated moderator will manage interactions, ensuring smooth communication between online and onsite attendees. Breakout groups will be organized, mixing online and onsite participants to foster diverse discussions. For optimal experience, we will ensure high-quality visuals and audio with professional equipment, and a dedicated tech team will monitor and resolve any technical issues. Platforms such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams will be used to integrate online participants, allowing them to interact seamlessly. Live captioning and translation tools will be provided to ensure accessibility, helping all participants follow the session regardless of location or language. This approach guarantees an inclusive, interactive environment where everyone can contribute and learn from diverse perspectives.