Climate change isn’t just a looming threat; it’s actively disrupting education systems worldwide. A new report from the World Bank paints a stark picture of the impact, revealing that a staggering 400 million students globally have endured school closures due to extreme weather events since 2022. This crisis disproportionately affects children in low-income countries, who lose an average of 18 school days each year compared to 2.4 days in wealthier nations.
The report predicts a bleak future for children born in 2024, who are projected to experience three times more floods, five times more droughts, and 36 times more heatwaves over their lifetime compared to those born in 1970. Even when schools are open, learning is compromised. For instance, students in the poorest 50% of municipalities in Brazil could lose half a year of learning due to excessive heat alone.
“Education systems are failing to provide the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed in a climate-affected world,” says Mamta Murthi, Vice President of the World Bank. “This is a missed opportunity to harness the power of education to adapt and mitigate the climate crisis.”
Beyond the immediate threats of extreme weather, education faces another critical challenge: underfunding in climate finance. Previous research revealed that only 1.5% of climate finance goes towards education. However, the World Bank report underscores that a modest investment could significantly improve the resilience of schools and minimize learning disruptions. A one-time investment of just $18.51 per student could enhance classroom temperatures, build resilient infrastructure, and provide teacher training, among other crucial adaptation measures.
“There are many low-cost steps governments can take to harness education and learning for climate action,” says Luis Benveniste, Global Director of Education at the World Bank. “Improving school infrastructure, ensuring learning continuity, and leveraging students and teachers as agents of positive change can contribute to a more liveable planet.”
The report also highlights a critical gap between the demand for green skills in low- and middle-income countries and the skills students are actually acquiring. Students are eager to address the climate crisis, but many lack the necessary knowledge and skills. While 65% of young people believe their future is at stake if climate action is not taken, 60% report inadequate climate change education in school. The report, based on data from 96 countries, demonstrates that each year of education increases climate awareness by 9%.
Furthermore, 73% of students believe that STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) skills are crucial for securing a future in a world grappling with climate change. The World Bank analysis reveals a strong demand for green skills across various sectors in low- and middle-income countries.
This report serves as a wake-up call, urging a significant shift in priorities and investments to ensure education systems are equipped to not only withstand the impacts of climate change but also empower future generations to become effective agents of change in building a sustainable future.
