Pakistan faces frequent floods, droughts, and heatwaves that disrupt everyday life, as it is one of the countries most affected by climate change. Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time. Its impact on education in Pakistan is undeniable. The environmental challenges caused by climate change not only damage school infrastructure but also create significant barriers to education for millions of children. It is crucial for Pakistan to develop education policies that are resilient to climate-related disruptions, ensuring that learning continues, even amid crisis.

The effects of climate change on education in Pakistan are wide-ranging. Infrastructure damage from climate-related disasters like floods and earthquakes has left many students without access to functioning schools. In 2022, the devastating floods affected over 2.5 million children, with countless schools either severely damaged or completely destroyed. Extreme weather events often force families to migrate, which displaces children and interrupts their education. Access to education is frequently limited in temporary shelters or resettlement areas. Beyond the physical impact, climate change also poses health and safety risks within schools. Rising temperatures and poor ventilation make classrooms uncomfortable and even dangerous, particularly in rural areas. Poor air quality increases respiratory problems, further hindering students’ attendance and concentration.

Addressing the challenges posed by climate change requires Pakistan to adopt policies that ensure educational resilience. This starts with building climate-resilient infrastructure, such as flood-proof schools and classrooms designed to withstand extreme heat. Schools should also be equipped with backup systems for water and sanitation during emergencies. Disaster preparedness is another key factor. Emergency education programs such as mobile classrooms, online platforms, and community-based learning can help to maintain education during crises.

Integrating climate education into the curriculum is also equally important. Teaching students about climate change, sustainability, and conservation prepares them to tackle future environmental challenges and empowers them to contribute to global mitigation efforts. Involving local communities in disaster preparedness plans is also essential. Communities have invaluable knowledge and resources that can help keep schools operational during and after climate-related events, which can help ensure education remains uninterrupted.

There are already several successful initiatives in Pakistan that illustrate the potential for climate-resilient education. Programs like “Education in Emergencies” have provided temporary learning spaces and online education in flood-affected areas, enabling children to continue their education despite environmental disruptions. The “Green Schools Initiative” in Sindh is another example of schools being built to withstand natural disasters while incorporating sustainable features like solar power and rainwater harvesting. These efforts not only ensure education is not disrupted but also teach students about climate change.

We have an opportunity to transform the education system into one that is more resilient, inclusive, and forward-thinking. Pakistan can create a generation of climate-conscious citizens ready to face the global environmental challenges ahead by investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, integrating climate education into curricula, and ensuring that no child’s education is disrupted due to environmental challenges.

Ayesha Iqbal
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