A holistic education that fosters 21st century skills, environmental awareness, climate literacy, and a global worldview is the key to addressing present-day environmental challenges and building a sustainable future. Education is a vital part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and is considered a driver for the transformations towards achieving the 17 SDGs. India’s National Education Policy 2020[1] too recognises the importance of environmental awareness for all students and mentions that environmental education should be included in formal curricula.
Through the Green Action Schools Program, schools will
- use informative resources and strategies to build knowledge and skills in students,
- inculcate in them a spirit of environmental stewardship, and
- equip them to create a positive impact in their communities and their future roles as global citizens.
The Program will also provide a platform on which enterprising schools, educators, and students are recognised and celebrated for their eco-friendly initiatives.
[1] National Education policy 2020, Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India; https://www.education.gov.in/sites/upload_files/mhrd/files/NEP_Final_English_0.pdf