The Permanent Mission of the State of Qatar to the United Nations recently organized a side event at the 2024 High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development in New York. Titled ‘Education to Combat the Climate Crisis,’ the event emphasized the importance of education in addressing the damages caused by climate change. Deputy Permanent Representative Mohammed Khalifa Al Nasr highlighted the impact of climate change on education infrastructure and access, underlining Qatar’s commitment to investing in education for a sustainable future.
Al Nasr also praised the work of Qatar Research Development and Innovation Council, which provides university students with opportunities to engage in climate change and environmental research. This aligns with Qatar’s National Environment and Climate Change Strategy launched in 2021. Sheikha Haya Abdulrahman Al Thani from Qatar Fund for Development highlighted the organization’s partnerships with global entities like the United Nations Development Programme, Unicef, and the Global Green Growth Institute to address climate change impacts and support vulnerable populations.
Education was emphasized as a crucial component in combating climate change, with a focus on empowering youth and communities with knowledge and tools for a resilient future. Maleiha Malik from Protect Education in Insecurity and Conflict (PEIC) at EAA stressed the importance of recognizing education’s role in climate change mitigation. The event aimed to mobilize support for transformative education strategies that can address climate risks and promote sustainable outcomes through innovative approaches.
The side event garnered significant attendance from UN officials and participating member states, highlighting the urgency of addressing the impacts of climate change through education and investment in new technologies and industries. The collaboration between Qatar and international partners underscores the shared commitment to combatting climate change and promoting sustainable development. By prioritizing education and empowering youth, communities can work towards a more sustainable and resilient future in the face of climate challenges.
