Claremorris student wins prestigious award

SAINT Colman's College in Claremorris is celebrating after one of its students picked up a prestigious environmental award.

Mohammad Naeem, a fifth year student, was awarded the Young Environmentalist of the Year award at the inaugural Mayo County Council Cathaoirleach’s Awards.

The judges’ citation read: ‘Mohammad’s commitment to climate action is evident through his dedication to numerous environmental projects in his school and local community, including tree planting, biodiversity initiatives and waste and plastic reduction, to name a few.

'His proactive nature has led him to sit on his Green-Schools committee and act as the Comhairle na nÓg representative on the Mayo County Council Climate and Biodiversity Sub Committee, where he acts as a voice for Mayo’s young people on environmental issues.’

Speaking about receiving the award, Mohammad stated: “I am delighted to have received this award. Climate change is such an important issue and it’s great to see the council constantly working towards involving more young people in local decision making and recognising the work young people do in their local communities.

“I am one of the youngest people to ever sit on a council committee as a youth representative and I have worked on many environmental projects throughout the year.

“In my school, we are working towards getting our Biodiversity Green Flag. The Green School committee has been busy surveying students, planting trees and building a bug house hotel.

“I would like to thank the school for nominating me for this award and the continuous support I have received from everyone in the college. It would not be possible without their support.”