REPORT BY MS. MARIA ISMAIL
In a major step towards grassroots climate action, IUCN Pakistan has trained 35 government school teachers from Malir district, equipping them with essential environmental education skills. This initiative aims to impact thousands of students, fostering a generation prepared to tackle climate challenges.
Renowned environmental journalist Afia Salam led the training alongside Ifrah Malik Naseem and Syed Saif Ur Rehman Shah from IUCN Pakistan. The session opened with an interactive discussion, where teachers voiced concerns about the growing environmental crisis. One participant highlighted, “Unsupervised urban development without proper environmental assessment has severely impacted the coastal ecosystem. We are witnessing mangrove deforestation, encroachment on green belts, and the disruption of natural water channels.”
The training focused on equipping teachers with strategies to integrate environmental education into their curriculum. Using IUCN knowledge products and curriculum textbooks, participants learned how to connect climate change themes with core subjects. Engaging activities, including a group discussion on Pakistan’s coastal resources, allowed teachers to brainstorm practical classroom applications.
A key highlight of the session was the commitment from teachers to actively raise environmental awareness among their students and communities. “Teachers are at the frontline of shaping young minds. By empowering them with environmental education, we create a ripple effect that benefits society at large,” stated an IUCN representative.
IUCN Pakistan reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening educators’ capacity, emphasizing that teachers play a crucial role in promoting environmental stewardship. As climate change intensifies, such initiatives are essential in fostering a well-informed and proactive generation ready to safeguard Pakistan’s natural heritage.