As many as 104 million children worldwide have faced school closures from January 2022 to April 2024, UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Kitty van der Heijden stated during her speech at a high-level panel themed "Greening Education and Climate Resilience" within the framework of COP29, Report informs.
Van der Heijden noted that 43% of children who endure climate shocks, like hurricanes, floods, or droughts, experience psychological stress as a result. This stress subsequently impacts their education.
"It is incorrect to claim that climate and education are unrelated, especially in the context of climate shocks. I believe that climate investments in education are essential. Because education is the best investment in climate adaptation. Climate and education problems are deeply interconnected. For example, providing schools with solar energy, as we have done in 80 countries, fosters greater climate awareness and environmental engagement."