Teacher training: "Climate Box" for schools in Kazakhstan

December 12, 2024
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Photo: UNDP Kazakhstan/Roman Kopanev

From 12 to 13 December, a teacher training workshop was held in Astana, supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Kazakhstan. The event was dedicated to raising awareness about climate change among the younger generation in Kazakhstan's secondary schools.

a man in a suit and tie
Photo: UNDP Kazakhstan/Roman Kopanev
"For many years, UNDP in Kazakhstan has actively supported key environmental initiatives in the country. Our support spans crucial areas such as adaptation and resilience, climate finance, inclusivity, green and inclusive transition, pathways to net-zero emissions, and transparency. We are proud to also support initiatives aimed at educating and engaging the younger generation in addressing climate challenges,"
noted Sukhrob Khojimatov, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Kazakhstan, opening the event.
Photo: UNDP Kazakhstan/Roman Kopanev

Climate change is one of the most pressing global issues of our time. Its consequences—rising global temperatures, frequent natural disasters, melting glaciers, and disrupted ecosystems—are felt worldwide, including in Kazakhstan. This highlights the importance of fostering environmental consciousness and a responsible attitude toward natural resources among schoolchildren.

The primary goal of the workshop was to train educators from North Kazakhstan, Akmola, Karaganda, Mangystau, Kostanay, Aktobe, Atyrau, and West Kazakhstan regions on how to integrate “Climate Box” materials into their teaching. This training aimed to prepare teachers to address environmental and climate topics in their lessons, help students understand the importance of responsible environmental stewardship, and inspire schoolchildren to engage in climate-related initiatives. The program included lectures, practical activities, and thematic discussions.

“Climate Box” is a comprehensive educational toolkit designed to teach schoolchildren and youth about climate change. It provides information on climate issues, interactive activities, project ideas, games, and guidance for teachers on how to incorporate this vital topic into their classes and extracurricular activities.

The project aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to become active participants in addressing environmental challenges. Initially launched by UNDP in 2014, "Climate Box" became one of the largest climate education projects in the region, covering nine countries in Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia by 2019. This year, UNDP adapted "Climate Box" materials specifically for schools in Kazakhstan, ensuring their relevance to the local context.

a group of people posing for the camera
Photo: UNDP Kazakhstan/Roman Kopanev