Empowering Youth for Climate Action – COP28 UCN’s Focus on Children and Climate Change

 Empowering Youth for Climate Action – COP28 UCN’s Focus on Children and Climate Change

At the forefront of addressing the impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations, the Children and Climate Change Thematic Group of the Universities Climate Network (UCN) is led by Maya Haddad from Ajman University. With participation from universities throughout the UAE, this group aims to raise awareness and foster understanding among university communities about the unique challenges children face due to climate change.

Purpose and Mandate The group's primary mission is to empower university students and faculty with knowledge about the impacts of climate change on children, focusing on areas like health, education, nutrition, and protection. By utilizing academic research with community involvement, the group aims to inspire actionable changes and advocate for policies that place children's needs at the forefront of climate adaptation and mitigation efforts.

Key Objectives and Activities:

• Research and Knowledge Dissemination: The group prioritizes conducting research on the impact of climate change on children, focusing on specific areas such as health risks, educational issues, and challenges to nutrition and safety. The findings are shared through academic publications, conferences, and public outreach initiatives to ensure a wide dissemination of knowledge.
• Educational Programs: The thematic group develops workshops, seminars, and educational programs that integrate climate change awareness into university curricula. These initiatives aim to deepen understanding among students and faculty about the critical connection between climate issues and child welfare.
• Community Engagement: Considering the importance of grassroots efforts, the group organizes outreach activities with local schools, NGOs, and communities to raise awareness of climate impacts on children. By engaging directly with the public, the group aims to foster a broader culture of climate consciousness and responsibility.
• Policy Advocacy: The thematic group actively engages with policymakers to ensure that children’s needs are considered in climate adaptation and mitigation strategies. They advocate for legislative changes that prioritize child welfare in the context of climate challenges, ensuring a supportive environment for future generations.
• Student Empowerment: Recognizing the power of youth voices, the group provides opportunities for university students to participate in research, advocacy, and community initiatives related to climate and children. They support student-led projects, fostering a new generation of leaders committed to addressing climate change.

Maya Haddad's leadership in the Children and Climate Change Thematic Group has facilitated university efforts across the UAE to focus on how climate change uniquely impacts children. By merging research with advocacy and direct community participation, the group is contributing significantly to the objectives of COP28. Their work ensures that youth and academic communities are not only informed, but also actively participate in the fight against climate change, with a special emphasis on protecting the most vulnerable—our youth.