Education is widely acknowledged as a crucial weapon in combating climate change and to empower the next generations to tackle environmental challenges head-on. However, the irony of fate is that this narrative faces a harsh reality: the education sector itself is increasingly compromised by the impacts of climate change. This is particularly true in nations like Pakistan, where environmental challenges intersect with educational imperatives, creating a complex and pressing dilemma.
Extreme weather events in Pakistan disrupt school schedules, leading to closures and hindering students’ learning. For instance, dense fog during winter and scorching heat in summer affect the entire educational system. The recent adjustment of school schedules by the education ministry in the federal capital serves as a testament to the unpredictable climate patterns the school children face. Last year, cities like Lahore, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi experienced school closures due to dense fog, impacting educational continuity. Moreover, smog-related shutdowns occurred in Punjab, contributing to respiratory issues and eye infections among students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. Rising temperatures also pose health risks, with students vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and dehydration. In a statement to APP, Muhammad Saleem, Media Spokesperson for the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, highlighted the escalating intensity and frequency of heatwaves in Pakistan’s plains. Recent weather records underscore the severity of this trend, with Pakistan experiencing some of the world’s highest temperatures in recent years. The IPCC’s 2021 findings projected Pakistan to endure more frequent and intense heatwaves. For instance, Jacobabad recorded temperatures exceeding 50°C in June 2021 and May 2022. Such extreme heat poses significant health risks, including heatstroke and dehydration. Saleem emphasized a collaborative approach involving federal, provincial, and district-level departments to mitigate heatwave impacts. Measures include issuing early warnings, developing SOPs, and establishing cooling centers equipped with water and ventilation systems. Additionally, initiatives such as heat-health awareness campaigns, tree plantations, and promoting reflective materials aim to mitigate heat stress. Saleem stressed the importance of public awareness, especially in educational institutions and through media channels, to minimize heatwave-related risks effectively.
