EduSpots launches a new fundraising challenge inviting schools, universities, families, community groups and organisations to play, connect and raise funds for the next generation of eco leaders in Ghana.

What if playing could help build a greener future?

EduSpots is inviting communities around the world to find out through Play for the Planet, a new global fundraising challenge that brings together the joy of play, community-led learning and environmental action.

Designed for schools, universities, families, community groups and organisations, Play for the Planet encourages participants to create their own playful eco-themed challenges, raise funds and help expand access to practical environmental education across communities in Ghana.

The campaign draws on something that has been central to EduSpots since its beginnings; learning through joy, creativity and participation.

More than a decade ago, EduSpots began with a simple act of collective action. Children in schools around the world raised money, brick by brick, to help build a LEGO library in Abofour, Ghana. The library became the foundation for the first EduSpots “Spot” – a community learning space filled with books, creative activities and digital tools. One of its early leaders, Gloria Addae, went on to establish an EduLit club where children developed literacy skills through drama, games, dancing, storytelling and riddles.

That playful spirit has continued to shape EduSpots’ work. Today, the organisation reaches 10,000 learners annually across 52 learning Spots, led by more than 400 local changemakers.

From Play to Planet

Play for the Planet builds on this approach while responding to an urgent need: supporting young people and communities to understand and respond to environmental challenges.

EduSpots currently runs EcoSTEM Clubs across 20 communities in Ghana, connecting science, technology, engineering and mathematics with real-world environmental challenges. Through practical monthly challenges, learners explore topics including renewable energy, waste management and biodiversity while developing creativity, teamwork and problem-solving skills.

The EduSpots network is now seeking to launch a new Eco Leadership Programme, with an ambition to engage 3,000 learners across 50 communities. The programme will develop the capacity of adult Catalysts and young EcoSparks to lead environmental education and action within their schools and communities, exploring areas including sustainable energy, plastics, biodiversity, eco-agriculture and tree planting.

Play for the Planet gives supporters an opportunity to become part of that journey.

Your Challenge, Your Way

There is no single way to take part.

Participants can bring their own creativity to the challenge; organising a six-a-side football tournament, a teachers-versus-students volleyball match, a colour run, a music play-off, a karaoke challenge, an eco-themed quiz, a recycled fashion show or even a LEGO environmental design competition.

The challenge is simple:

Build your team. Choose your challenge. Plan and share it. Play and fundraise. Then celebrate your impact.

The campaign is particularly suited to schools looking to incorporate Play for the Planet into CAS or the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, while also providing a flexible opportunity for families, workplaces and community groups to get involved.

Double Your Impact During Big Give Week

The campaign will lead up to a major fundraising opportunity during Big Give Week, 1–8 December 2026, when donations made through the campaign will be doubled in support of EduSpots’ climate education.

The guide highlights how different levels of support can contribute towards learner participation in residential eco-training, digital learning resources, solar power and EcoSTEM coordination.

Celebrating the Power of Play

Play for the Planet is not only about fundraising. It is also about celebrating the creativity, collaboration and joy that communities bring to action.

Participants will have the opportunity to compete for awards including the Eco Impact Champion Award, Creativity Champion Award, Playmaker Prize and Teamwork Award, with recognition across school, university, community and corporate teams. All participants will receive certificates, feedback from the judges and an invitation to an online celebration event.

At EduSpots, this emphasis on positive feedback and participation reflects the organisation’s wider approach to learning and community development. As one former learner, now a Catalyst, reflected: “EduSpots doesn’t just provide resources; they ignited a culture of learning, collaboration and leadership that changed my life.”

Join Play for the Planet

From a football pitch to a school hall, Play for the Planet is an invitation to rediscover what can happen when people come together to play with purpose.

By turning everyday play into collective action, participants can help support young people and local leaders in Ghana to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to become environmental changemakers in their own communities.

Will you join EduSpots in building #OurCollectiveFuture through Play for the Planet?

For more information, contact Jennifer Mensah, Educational Partnerships Manager, at jmensah@eduspots.org or visit www.eduspots.org.