UNESCO has once again emphasized its leading role in promoting collaboration for climate education in the Asia-Pacific region. The message was highlighted during a side event at the 11th Asia-Pacific Forum for Sustainable Development. This event, titled 'Building a Greener Future: Education as a Climate Solution,' was co-organized by various organizations including UNESCO, the Global Partnership for Education, and Save the Children.
The event brought together a panel of government officials, youth representatives, and others to discuss how education plays a crucial role in addressing climate issues. The focus was on empowering children and youth to become active agents of change for a more equitable and sustainable future in Asia-Pacific. Approximately 70 people attended in person, while 116 joined online through Zoom, and additional viewers tuned in via Facebook LIVE.
UNESCO Bangkok Regional Director Soohyun Kim stressed the importance of integrating Climate Change Education into global education system transformation, as outlined in the UN 'Transforming Education Summit' of 2022. She highlighted the urgency of engaging youth, developing teachers' capacity, and incorporating sustainable development education at all learning levels.
Ms. Kim also mentioned the alarming fact that 244 million children might lack access to education this year, with one billion children at significant risk due to the climate crisis. She emphasized the unequal burden faced by young children in the Asia-Pacific region across various care components.
The need for strong collaboration among stakeholders and dialogue at the highest levels was underscored, with Ms. Kim mentioning the upcoming UN 'Summit of the Future.' She stressed the integration of environmental and sustainability education in school curricula to instill a sense of responsibility and encourage sustainable behaviors.
Additional remarks were provided by Mr. Roger Yap Chao, Jr. from the ASEAN Secretariat and Congresswoman Cynthia K. Chan from the Philippines. They highlighted the importance of youth participation in decision-making for climate action and shared experiences related to climate crises, emphasizing the role of education as a beacon of hope.
