OCOY 4.0 will bring together Odisha’s young climate leaders, students and innovators from 10–12 August 2026 to discuss sustainability and climate action
OdishaPlus Bureau
The fourth edition of the Odisha Conference of Youth (OCOY) will be held from 10–12 August 2026 at XIM University, Bhubaneswar, bringing together young climate leaders, students, researchers, development practitioners and civil society organisations to deliberate on climate action and sustainability.
Over three days, participants will engage in discussions on climate leadership, community-based solutions, youth innovation, environmental justice and green entrepreneurship. The conference will also feature field visits, workshops, creative communication sessions and the presentation of a Youth Statement capturing the perspectives and priorities of young people on climate action.
Beyond the event itself, OCOY has become a youth-led climate movement in Odisha. Since its inception, the conference has evolved from an awareness-building initiative into a platform that nurtures climate leadership and community action among young people.
More than 450 youth leaders have been associated with OCOY over the years, contributing to tangible environmental initiatives across the state. Their collective efforts include planting over 1.5 lakh saplings, preparing 5,000 seed balls, collecting nearly 50 tonnes of waste through plogging drives, implementing around 30 youth-led climate projects and supporting the incubation of 20 eco-entrepreneurs. The initiative has also expanded its reach to all 30 districts through partnerships with more than 50 organisations and the National Service Scheme (NSS).
The conference has grown in stages. The inaugural edition focused on creating awareness about climate change and its impact on Odisha. The second edition strengthened participants’ skills in climate leadership, advocacy and community engagement, while the third encouraged youth-led projects and greater engagement with policymakers and wider climate networks.
This gradual progression—from awareness to capacity building, action and leadership—has made OCOY a significant platform for youth participation in climate governance. As climate challenges become increasingly complex, initiatives that equip young people with knowledge, leadership skills and opportunities for collective action are gaining importance.
The upcoming fourth edition reflects this continuing journey, providing another opportunity for Odisha’s youth to exchange ideas, showcase local solutions and contribute to conversations on building a more climate-resilient future.