Mohammad Al- Amin: Faced with unprecedented environmental challenges, the need to combat climate change has become more pressing than ever. Education about the climate is an indispensable instrument for empowering individuals to take meaningful action and effect positive change. It equips individuals with the knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes necessary to act as change agents so that they can comprehend and address the effects of the climate crisis. As the effects of climate change become more apparent, there is a moral obligation to equip current and future generations with the knowledge and resources necessary to become effective climate advocates. The international community acknowledges the significance of education and training in the fight against climate change. This essay argues for the incorporation of comprehensive climate education into school curricula, highlighting its transformative potential in fostering environmentally conscious and responsible citizens.

Its value resides in its capacity to nurture a comprehensive comprehension of the intricate relationship between human activities and the environment. By supplying exhaustive and scientifically accurate information, students can comprehend the gravity of the situation and recognize their individual and collective responsibilities in responding to the crisis. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement agenda require governments to educate, empower, and engage all stakeholders and key organizations on policies and actions. In certain circles, the prevalence of climate scepticism has impeded effective climate action. By providing individuals with credible and current information, we can create a society that embraces science and decision-making based on evidence. The emphasis on the interdependence of environmental, social, and economic issues is essential to climate education. It has implications for agricultural security, water resources, human health, biodiversity, and social justice. Incorporating these ideas into climate education promotes a holistic approach to problem-solving that addresses numerous dimensions of sustainability. In addition, climate education should extend beyond the classroom and involve the broader community. Educational institutions can raise awareness and inspire grassroots action by partnering with local organizations. Especially in vulnerable regions disproportionately impacted by climate change, community-led initiatives are essential for nurturing resilience. In addition to these factors, the study investigated the experiences and perspectives of young Bangladeshis regarding the effects of climate change on education.

Even though 77% of respondents said they learned about climate change and global warming in school, 50% of respondents were unable to define climate change and global warming, according to the key findings. 70% of respondents expressed at least a modicum of concern regarding the future implications. 65 per cent of respondents believed that governments should take the most action, followed by children and young adults (24 per cent) and businesses (9 per cent). 78% of respondents indicated that climate change had an impact on their education, spanning from school withdrawals caused by flooding (25% of respondents) to impacts on the commute to school (23% of respondents). 94% of respondents indicated they would take action to combat climate change if given the necessary resources. Floods, cyclones, storm surges, riverbank erosion, desertification, and rising sea levels are just a few of the hazards that could place Bangladesh`s 63 million youths at risk for physical and social damage. In 2008, floodwaters destroyed 49 schools and severely damaged 700 others, depriving approximately 50,000 children of their right to an education. In addition to promoting awareness, climate education should emphasize practical skills and encourage students to take initiative. Students can implement their knowledge in real-world situations when they participate in sustainability projects or local environmental initiatives.

To make climate education genuinely effective, it is necessary to incorporate it across multiple subjects and educational levels. Science, social studies, mathematics, and even the arts should include climate-related topics. This interdisciplinary approach enables students to comprehend the complexities of climate change and its solutions, fostering a well-rounded education that fosters critical thinking and originality. CLIMATE Asia Pacific (CAP) is a network of environmental educators and advocates from Asia-Pacific nations that aims to increase the public`s awareness and capacity to address climate change and other environmental issues. Government initiatives and policies include the Bangladesh Renewable Energy Policy of 2008, the Bangladesh Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan of 2009, the Bangladesh Climate Change Trust Act of 2010, the Bangladesh Delta Plan of 2100, the National Strategy on Internal Displacement Management of 2021, the National Plan for Disaster Management of 2021–2025, and the National Environment Policy of 2018. In addition, incorporating technology and innovation into climate education can produce remarkable outcomes. Enhancing learning experiences and making them more accessible to students of all ages through the use of virtual simulations, data analysis tools, and interactive platforms for environmental monitoring and sustainable development. The Education and Environment Ministries should implement a series of effective programs in the areas of campaign and advocacy, training, network building, climate change mitigation and adaptation, legislative lobbying, research and documentation, eco-tourism, hill cultivation, energy efficiency & conservation awareness, etc.

To sum up, climate education is the foundation from which climate leaders of the future will emerge. It is not solely a theoretical pursuit; it is a crucial instrument for empowering individuals to become positive change agents. By cultivating a profound understanding of climate science, fostering interdisciplinary learning, and encouraging community engagement, we can shape a generation that is knowledgeable, proactive, and dedicated to protecting our planet for future generations. As a civilization, we must prioritize climate education and invest in our youth`s potential as the engine of a sustainable future.

Writer: Mohammad Al- Amin is the Post Graduate Student of Public Administration department at Comilla University