ISLAMABAD: Coordinator to Prime Minister on Climate Change Romina Khurshid Alam has emphasised transforming educational system to enable it to equip students with the knowledge and skills to tackle complex climate challenges and build a resilient future.

“Education is the cornerstone of sustainable development and climate action for resilient and environmentally-sustainable society,” said the PM’s climate aide on Monday.

She was addressing at a high-level event ‘Acting on Commitments – Ministerial Discussion on Green Education and Planning for the Future’, organised by Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) in collaboration with Cambridge University on the sidelines of COP29 global Climate Summit.

“By greening our education systems, we are equipping the next generation with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to address climate change and build a resilient future,” she said.

The PM coordinator said as a nation highly vulnerable to climate change, Pakistan recognised the transformative power of education in addressing climate challenges.

"Our commitment to greening education stems from the belief that equipping our youth with climate knowledge is fundamental to achieving long-term resilience and sustainability," she added.

Highlighting Pakistan’s efforts to mainstream climate education into national education system, Romina Khurshid Alam said significant progress had been made by the present government by integrating climate education into national curricula.

"From primary to university levels, we have developed educational modules tailored to build climate awareness. These modules emphasise the science of climate change, its impacts and actionable solutions, ensuring that students grow up with a sense of responsibility toward the environment," she added.

These efforts also extend to training teachers as key change agents in this mission. Besides, teachers across Pakistan are being equipped with the skills and tools to deliver climate education effectively, Romina Khurshid Alam said, adding that community-based programmes had been introduced to create broader awareness and engage parents, caregivers and local leaders in the process of greening education.

She also highlighted that to ensure accessibility and inclusivity, the country has also embraced innovative approaches such as digital learning platforms and partnerships with local and international organisations. These initiatives make climate education available even in remote areas, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship among all demographics, Ms Alam added.

“Pakistan’s efforts are enriched through collaboration with global institutions like ICESCO and Cambridge University. Such partnerships have facilitated knowledge exchange, provided technical expertise, and enabled us to adopt best practices in climate-focused education and planning,” the PM’s climate aide said.

She stressed that all nations and institutions need to prioritise investment in greening education.

“Together, we can ensure that the leaders of tomorrow are prepared to tackle challenges of climate change with innovation, compassion and resilience. Pakistan remains committed to this shared vision and stands ready to collaborate further,” the PM’s climate aide said.

Published in Dawn, November 19th, 2024