The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and the Ghana Education Service (GES) has lauded Access Bank Ghana for the successful launch of phase two of its impactful initiative that aims to supply 20,000 sandals to schoolchildren nationwide, using recycled car tyres to produce the footwear.

This effort aligns with global sustainability goals, including the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and reflects Access Bank’s dedication to both environmental sustainability and social responsibility.

Representing the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources at the event, Joseph Osiakwan, Technical Director in charge of Forestry, delivered remarks on behalf of the sector minister, Samuel Abu Jinapor.

Osiakwan commended Access Bank for its innovative approach to addressing the needs of schoolchildren while also contributing to environmental protection efforts.

“This initiative by Access Bank is an example of the shared responsibility we all bear in addressing the climate crisis. This indeed will augment government efforts to fight climate change and promote environmental sustainability,” he said during a launch event at the Kroma Cluster of Schools in Nungua, Accra, on September 10, 2024.

The Ghana Education Service (GES) also praised the initiative for its dual focus on providing quality education and fostering sustainable practices.

The "A Sandal More for a Better Tomorrow" initiative not only enhances school attendance by providing comfortable footwear but also reduces waste through the recycling of used tyres.

A standout feature of the second phase of the initiative is the "Better Tomorrow Truck," which will tour all 16 regions of Ghana to distribute sandals to schools identified by GES and through social media engagement. Access Bank and its partners have further committed to planting trees in every region visited by the truck to offset carbon emissions, demonstrating their dedication to a greener future.

The initiative has also provided an economic boost to local communities, creating jobs for over 500 shoemakers in the Ashanti Region who are responsible for crafting the sandals.

This aspect of the project was particularly highlighted by Access Bank’s Country Operating Officer, Ugochi Okoro, who emphasised that the initiative goes beyond merely supplying footwear.

“Our ‘A Sandal More for a Better Tomorrow’ initiative is about creating opportunities, uplifting communities, and protecting our environment,” Okoro stated.

She further highlighted the project’s alignment with SDGs focused on decent work, economic growth, and climate action.

Chief Operating Officer of Rana Motors, Kassem Odaymat in his remarks reiterated the company's commitment by providing 4,000 used tyres for sandal production, while Horseman Shoes’ Kabutey Ocansey underscored the importance of local craftsmanship and the potential for the project to expand to other regions and countries.

The initiative also includes a unique component that captures the dreams of the children receiving the sandals, with plans to sponsor some of the most promising students to support their educational and career goals.

Oluwaseun David-Akindele, Head of Corporate Communications and Brand Management at Access Bank Ghana, highlighted this as an investment in the future, stating, “We are not just giving these children sandals; we are investing in their futures.”

The commendation from the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and GES reflects the significant impact of Access Bank’s efforts in supporting education, sustainability, and local communities.

As phase two of "A Sandal More for a Better Tomorrow" unfolds, the initiative is poised to make a lasting difference in the lives of Ghanaian schoolchildren and contribute to a more sustainable future.