Climate change education initiative launched

From devastating floods to intensifying cyclones and soaring temperatures, the Sindh province in recent years has faced severe climate-related challenges.

The events like the 2010 and 2022 floods have affected millions of people and highlight the urgent need for proactive climate resilience measures in the province.

Recognising this critical need, Sindh Community Foundation (SCF), dedicated to environmental causes, has partnered with the Education and Literacy Department of Sindh. They are launching a pioneering initiative to combat the adverse impacts of climate change through education. The targeted districts include Thatta, Badin, Sujawal, Jacobabad, Matiari, Dadu, Hyderabad, Tharparkar, Sanghar, and Khairpur.

The signing ceremony marking the official commencement of this initiative was attended by notable figures including Sindh Education and Literacy Department Secretary Zahid Ali Abbasi, Curriculum Wing Chief Advisor Dr Fouzia Khan, representative from Sindh Teacher Education Development Authority (STEDA) Rasool Bux Shah, and SCF Executive Director Javed Hussain. Speaking on the occasion, Zahid Ali Abbasi emphasised the government's proactive stance in integrating climate and environmental concepts into the educational landscape. He stressed the transformative impact of instilling climate resilience and environmental stewardship in children from a young age, noting initiatives like tree plantation drives as pivotal for future environmental sustainability.

Curriculum Wing Advisor Dr Fouzia Khan mentioned the critical link between climate change and educational equity, particularly for vulnerable communities. She underscored the imperative to build a resilient educational system capable of withstanding the disruptive impacts of climate change.

An acclaimed climate change activist, Javed Hussain, placed the initiative within the broader context of global sustainability goals, emphasising its alignment with the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.