Building a climate smart education system in Africa

In a recent interview on CNBC Africa, Manos Antoninis, the Director of Global Education Monitoring, shed light on the vital link between education and climate change. The discussion centered around the role of education in enabling individuals to understand, adapt, and mitigate the effects of climate change. Antoninis emphasized that while education is often assumed to address the challenges of climate change, the actual link between the two is not as strong as perceived. The interview delved into the types of education needed for effective climate action, highlighting the importance of not just cognitive learning but also behavioral and social-emotional learning. It was noted that many countries primarily focus on transmitting knowledge about climate change, overlooking the emotional and behavioral aspects that drive action. This lack of emphasis on holistic education hinders society's ability to perceive climate change as a current threat impacting their lives and future generations. One key takeaway from the discussion was the need for a shift towards a more comprehensive educational approach that encompasses all facets of climate change awareness and action. Antoninis underlined the significance of adaptation in various sectors such as agriculture and green technology. Educated individuals, particularly farmers, are more likely to adapt to climate challenges, understanding the need for changes in farming practices and embracing green technologies. The interview also touched upon the role of education in disaster mitigation and preparedness. It was highlighted that higher levels of education correlate with reduced exposure to disaster risks, as educated individuals make informed decisions to safeguard themselves and their communities. However, there is a pressing need to equip future professionals with the necessary skills to address climate-induced disasters effectively, especially in urban planning and architecture. The discussion further examined global trends in climate change education policies, revealing disparities in coverage and emphasis across different regions. While some countries like South Sudan, Cameroon, and Cabo Verde exhibit significant coverage of climate change in their curricula, others in Southern Africa, such as South Africa and Botswana, lag behind. This discrepancy underscores the urgent need for a unified approach to climate change education that transcends geographical boundaries. Moreover, the interview highlighted the gender dimension of education's impact on climate change, particularly in relation to women's decision-making regarding fertility and childbirth. Antoninis noted that investment in women's education can lead to reduced population growth, thereby mitigating the environmental impact of increased consumption in the future. Overall, the interview underscored the pivotal role of education in combating climate change on a global scale. It called for a paradigm shift in educational strategies to foster a deeper understanding of climate change, promote sustainable practices, and empower individuals to make informed choices for a more resilient future. Education was portrayed as a key player in shaping the narrative around climate change, with the potential to drive meaningful change across generations and regions.