The Oyo State Government has launched a Climate Literacy and Awareness Programme aimed at equipping teachers with the knowledge to promote environmental education and climate action in schools, with over 300 educators expected to benefit.
The initiative, organised by the Global Impact Sustainable Development Enterprise in partnership with the Oyo State Ministry of Education, the University of the West of England, Bristol, and the Carbon Literacy Project, is designed to strengthen teachers’ understanding of climate change and environmental sustainability.
Speaking at the inauguration in Ibadan on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Ademola Aderinto, described teachers as the most effective channel for promoting climate awareness among children, given their role in shaping the attitudes and behaviour of future generations.
He said although climate literacy had yet to become a standalone subject in schools, teachers could integrate environmental consciousness into classroom teaching and daily interactions with pupils.
According to him, “Teachers spend a significant part of every child’s day. They are highly influential in shaping children’s values and behaviour. That is why we believe they are the right people to drive this message. Even if climate literacy is not yet a standalone curriculum, they can incorporate it into their teaching and encourage environmental responsibility.”
