Primary Schools Invited to Take Part in Environmental Youth Speak Competition

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council (FODC), in partnership with South West College and The Executive Office (TEO) District Council Good Relations Programme are inviting Primary Schools across the District to take part in this year’s Environmental Youth Speak Competition.

The competition, open to pupils in Primary 5 to Primary 7, encourages young people to explore key environmental issues through public speaking. Schools can nominate either a team of up to three pupils or an individual to represent their school.

The theme for the 2026 competition is “The Importance of Reuse & Repair.” Pupils are invited to research and present their views on the topic in an initial written submission, to be submitted by Friday 16 January 2026. Shortlisted entrants will then be invited to take part in the finals day, which will take place on Thursday 26 February 2026 at South West College, Omagh Campus.

Launching the competition, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Barry McElduff, said:

“I am delighted that the Council and South West College are working together to organise Environmental Youth Speak. It is an excellent initiative which empowers our young people to speak out and share their views on key environmental issues. It also provides them with an opportunity to enhance their skills in public speaking.

I would encourage all schools to participate, as our young people will be the Environmental Leaders of the future. It is vital that we inspire them to protect the environment and hear their views about what they would like to see and do to safeguard our planet.”

Supriya Foster, Sustainability Officer at South West College, added:

“South West College is delighted to partner with Fermanagh and Omagh District Council on the inspiring Environmental Youth Speak initiative, which champions biodiversity and sustainability.

Sustainability is central to South West College’s ethos, and we are proud to host this event at our Omagh Campus and to be part of such a vital initiative that empowers young voices advocating for a greener future.”

Hugo Sweeney, Good Relations Officer for FODC, also added “that this creative initiative will enhance the quality and extent of our shared education and help build a community where our young people can play a full and active role in building good relations and looking after our local environment”

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is committed to ensuring that the District’s natural and built environment is cherished and sustainably managed. Through partnerships and initiatives such as Environmental Youth Speak, the Council continues to deliver on its Climate Change, Sustainable Development, and Biodiversity strategies — inspiring the next generation to protect and enhance our environment.

For more information, please contact the Climate Team on 0300 303 1777 or via climate@fermanaghomagh.com.