A new report by the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) in collaboration with the World Bank highlights the growing threat of climate change to education.
Titled “Too Hot to Learn: The Impact of Climate Change on Education,” the report warns that by 2050, nearly 2.2 billion children worldwide could face frequent heatwaves, drastically disrupting learning environments.
Heatwaves Disrupt Learning Environments
Extreme temperatures, fueled by climate change, are not just environmental issues but educational challenges.
Heatwaves have forced schools in countries like Pakistan, South Sudan, and India to shut down, disrupting the education of millions.
For example:
In May 2024, a heatwave in Pakistan left 26 million children out of school.
South Sudan’s schools closed for 2.2 million students in April 2024 when temperatures hit 45°C (113°F).
Unprepared schools, especially in low-income regions, often lack proper ventilation, cooling systems, or even safe drinking water, making learning conditions unbearable during extreme heat.
Impact on Students’ Concentration and Performance
High temperatures and dehydration severely impact students’ ability to concentrate and process information. A survey in South Asia found that 78% of students reported climate-related disruptions, including difficulty concentrating, damaged school buildings, and disrupted commutes.
Call for Climate-Resilient Education Systems
Governments and organizations like UNICEF are now advocating for climate-resilient schools. Measures include:
Upgrading school infrastructure with better ventilation and cooling systems.
Training teachers in climate-resilient practices.
Integrating climate education into curricula to empower students with sustainable solutions.
Despite these efforts, only 8% of countries currently provide climate education to a significant portion of their students, highlighting the urgent need for global action.
As heatwaves grow more frequent and severe, immediate investment in climate-resilient education systems is essential. Ensuring a safe and conducive learning environment is not just a right but a necessity for children worldwide.
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