As part of the third phase of the Small-Scale Initiatives Program for Civil Society Organizations in North Africa (PPI OSCAN3) and within the activities of the “Aswan Seed Bank” project implemented by the Benban Energy Investors Association, an awareness campaign was organized for university students. The campaign aimed to highlight the importance of seed banks and their critical role in addressing future environmental and agricultural challenges. It sought to enhance environmental and agricultural awareness among youth and equip them with the knowledge necessary to develop sustainable solutions for pressing issues such as climate change and drought.

This campaign represents a key step toward building a conscious and responsible generation. Students were introduced to the role of seed banks in preserving biodiversity and protecting local agricultural resources. The campaign also emphasized the importance of community participation in supporting these initiatives as an effective solution for ensuring the sustainability of natural resources for future generations.

The campaign included workshops and lectures designed to educate students about the operation of seed banks and their impact on enhancing food security and adapting to environmental changes. This initiative is part of the ongoing efforts of the Aswan Seed Bank to achieve sustainable development goals, promote sustainability values, and protect the environment across different community sectors, particularly university students, who represent the future force for developing solutions to environmental and agricultural challenges.

The Nile Valley Seed Bank project, implemented through a partnership between the Arab Network for Environment and Development (RAED) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resoiurces IUCN – Centre for Mediterranean Cooperation, aims to support species survival, reduce the risk of extinction of certain wild plant species, and preserve biodiversity. It also strives to achieve sustainable development by involving civil society in efforts to conserve and protect nature.