Transforming Elementary Schools into Climate Resilient Oases: A Look at OASIS Schoolyards

Across Semarang, Central Java, a thoughtful change is happening. With climate challenges like heat waves and flooding, the city is focused on schools. Their approach, called the OASIS Schoolyards initiative, aims to create “urban oases.” These spaces are green, cool, and functional, enhancing both learning and play while promoting climate awareness.

The OASIS Schoolyards program began in Paris in 2018. It was a response to rising temperatures and their effects on children and communities. Paris transformed nearly 200 schoolyards, making them welcoming areas for learning and socializing, while also combating heat waves. Inspired by its success, 2023 saw similar initiatives roll out in Semarang and the Philippines.

Semarang faces significant climate threats. In 2024, 129 schools shut down due to severe flooding, with many being elementary institutions. This disruption not only halted learning but also posed health risks, such as respiratory issues and struggles with concentration due to high temperatures. Damage to school playgrounds and fields added to the challenges.

Budi Prakosa, head of the Semarang City Regional Development Planning Agency, highlighted the need for more green spaces. “According to the Spatial Planning Law, a city should have at least 20% green space. Semarang currently only has 12.5%. OASIS Schoolyards hold promise for meeting this requirement while building resilience and promoting environmental education.”

The OASIS initiative redefines learning spaces. Education isn’t limited to classrooms anymore; schoolyards now serve as active environments where students can engage with their surroundings, enhance their social ties, and apply what they learn to real-life situations. Local communities are also involved, enriching the educational experience.

From September 2024 to June 2025, five pilot schools participated in this transformative initiative. Students learned about climate change, practiced waste and water management, and redesigned their schoolyards into urban oases through collaborative design sessions.

At SD Marsudirini Gedangan, a student-led project helped manage daily waste. Under the initiative “Peduli Lingkungan Atasi Sampah Harian” (Caring for the Environment Overcomes Daily Waste), students sorted leaves and turned them into compost. Engaging with the school groundskeeper deepened their understanding of waste cycles and teamwork.

At MI Darul Ulum Ngaliyan, students visited a local waste disposal site to discuss community waste issues. They then repurposed organic waste into compost and liquid fertilizer, blending science with civic responsibility.

Limited access to clean water led students at SD 01 Gebangsari to create a simple filtration system. This innovation showed how environmental challenges can spark practical learning.

The OASIS Schoolyards initiative not only promotes environmental action but also enhances teacher skills. About 82% of teachers reported feeling more capable of teaching climate topics interactively. They created 29 project-based learning modules, which are now models for other schools.

OASIS is changing school culture. Once quiet schoolyards are now living classrooms, fostering a sense of community and sustainability. This program also helps schools earn the Adiwiyata School award, recognizing their commitment to environmental consciousness.

These small actions can lead to larger impacts. While climate challenges are daunting, combining education, design, and community engagement is a promising way to build resilient cities, starting from the ground up.

For further reading on climate education and community initiatives, check out this World Bank report, which outlines the importance of integrating climate awareness into education.

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