Why Climate-Resilient Schools Are Essential to Solve the Learning Crisis: Insights from UNICEF – Punto! Central Luzon

As children gear up for school in the Philippines, UNICEF is pushing for a stronger focus on education in the country’s climate action plans. This involves making the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC 3.0), which is set to be submitted before the COP30 UN Climate Change Conference, more child-friendly.

Children, who make up about a third of the Philippine population, are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. In fact, the World Risk Index shows that the Philippines has a high risk of disasters. UNICEF’s recent report ranks it as the second-highest in East Asia and the Pacific regarding climate risk from a child’s perspective.

The government recognizes that climate change disrupts education in significant ways. According to a recent report, students may lose up to a month of school each year due to climate-related events. Schools often become evacuation centers during disasters, despite regulations stating they should only do so as a last resort. Damage to infrastructure and learning materials makes it even harder for children to stay on track with their studies. The government reported annual losses of PhP 17.98 billion from these disruptions.

“The climate crisis is reshaping children’s futures. It affects their health and development, making it crucial for educational plans to include adaptation measures,” said Behzad Noubary, UNICEF Philippines Representative Ad Interim. He emphasizes the need for urgent action now to ensure children’s rights to education are protected.

Recent studies suggest that education systems can indeed adapt to climate challenges. They can equip communities with essential knowledge and values needed for a sustainable transition. UNICEF is calling for investment in better school infrastructure, updated curricula, and teacher training to support flexible learning strategies when disasters strike.

Moreover, UNICEF is actively working to make schools climate-resilient. They focus on empowering school communities, enhancing their capabilities to prepare for and recover from emergencies. This includes inclusive disaster risk reduction strategies and encouraging students to advocate for their rights.

As schools reopen each year, it’s vital to remember that education and environmental resilience go hand in hand. By acknowledging these challenges and responding proactively, we can pave a better path for future generations.

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