A new World Bank report reveals that more than 400 million students worldwide have experienced school closures due to extreme weather since 2022. The report, released today, underscores the severe impact of climate change on education in low- and middle-income countries and proposes solutions to leverage education for climate action. It estimates that a one-time investment of $18.51 per child can mitigate the adverse effects of climate shocks.
The report, titled “Choosing Our Future: Education for Climate Action,” highlights that low-income countries are disproportionately affected, with an average loss of 18 school days annually compared to 2.4 days in wealthier nations. According to the report, a child born in 2024 will face significantly more climate-related disasters over their lifetime than one born in 1970.
“Young people are directly impacted by this crisis, and they are eager to act. Yet education systems are not delivering the information, skills and opportunities they need in a climate-affected world,” said Mamta Murthi, Vice President of People Vice Presidency at the World Bank. “This is a missed opportunity to harness the power of education so we can adapt to and mitigate the climate crisis.”
The report also points out that only 1.5% of climate finance is allocated to education. However, it argues that for $18.51 per child, schools could implement measures such as improving classroom temperatures, building resilient infrastructure, and training teachers to better protect learning from climate change.
“The promising news is that there are many low-cost steps that governments can take to harness education and learning for climate action while adapting education systems to climate change,” said Luis Benveniste, Global Director of Education at the World Bank. “Improving school infrastructure, ensuring learning continuity, and leveraging students and teachers as effective agents of positive change can all contribute to a more livable planet.”
Surveys conducted for the report reveal a disconnect between young people's eagerness to act on climate issues and their lack of knowledge and skills. Approximately 65% of young people across eight countries believe their futures depend on acquiring green skills; however, 60% feel they did not learn enough about climate change in school.
The data suggests each additional year of education increases climate awareness by nearly 9%. The report argues that addressing gaps in information and skills through education is essential for driving global climate action by reshaping mindsets, behaviors, skills, and innovation.
Contrary to popular belief among young people in low- and middle-income countries—73% think green jobs require STEM skills—the report finds green skills are needed across various skill levels and sectors. For instance, 31% of green jobs in the Philippines are medium-skill roles.
The document outlines evidence-based strategies including improving foundational and STEM skills, mainstreaming climate education, enhancing teacher capacity, prioritizing green skilling in tertiary education as part of its policy agenda aimed at supporting country efforts towards sustainable practices.
For more information:
https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/education
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