From Awareness to Action: Project Hello’s First Climate Workshops
Climate change is a pressing issue impacting our daily lives. To raise awareness, we held our inaugural workshop for Project Hello at Chalksutrapur Govt. Primary School and Bogura Jubilee Institution on June 9, 2024. Though it was our first time organizing such an event, we did a great job despite our inexperience. Through interactive activities and discussions, we helped students empathize with the effects of climate change and explore ways to manage its risks. We explained how small changes in our daily habits can make a big difference. We can't wait to share our entire workshop experience with you!
To Summarize Our Day
We arrived at Bogura Jubilee Institution, our first destination, at 11:00 AM. Having secured permission earlier, we requested to conduct our pre-planned climate change activity. The headmaster kindly asked for 30-40 minutes to allow the students to finish their classes. In the meantime, we visited Chalksutrapur Govt. Primary School. The headmistress there was very cooperative and allowed us to hold a short session on climate awareness with the younger students. We'll share details about that session later.
Back at Bogura Jubilee Institution, we conducted a session on the causes and effects of climate change. The students, likely middle schoolers, were actively engaged. We even had a lively discussion about what small steps individuals can take to reduce their carbon footprint. Their enthusiasm and willingness to learn exceeded our expectations. We are grateful for their support and hope to continue these workshops in the future.
Workshop at the Chalksutrapur Govt. Primary School
Our workshop at the Chalksutrapur Govt. Primary School was not preplanned. Since both schools were side-by-side, we took advantage of the proximity and approached the headmistress after securing time with the Bogura Jubilee Institution headmaster. Impressed by our goal, she readily granted us permission to arrange a climate awareness session. Limited by time, we decided to involve the entire school. Splitting our five-member team, we requested the school create separate groups for students from classes 1-3 and 4-5.
One team went to the room with classes 1-3, whom we called "The Seeds of Change" as they represent the future. We aimed to plant the seeds of environmental awareness in these young minds. We began by explaining the difference between climate and weather in a way they could easily understand. When we asked about changes they'd observed due to climate change, a lively discussion erupted. Some students mentioned how hot the weather felt these days, highlighting their concern. We encouraged them to change habits and were delighted to discover many already had flowering plants at home. They even proudly shared new flower names with us! We encouraged them to keep planting and shared some basic tips on watering and sunlight needs. These bright and responsive kids were a joy to interact with; their enthusiasm was contagious.
Our session with classes 4-5, whom we called "Climate Champions in the Making," was equally successful. We explained climate change, its effects, and risk management using the language appropriate for their age group.
The Chalksutrapur Govt. Primary School workshop was a rewarding start, boosting our confidence in Bogura Jubilee Institution. But more importantly, the lessons learned from these young minds were incredible. They reminded us that we can learn from everyone, especially the immense potential young minds hold.
Workshop at the Bogura Jubilee Institution
Following our successful session at Chalksutrapur School, we started our workshop at Bogura Jubilee Institution with the students from classes 6 to 9. The students' warm welcome and enthusiasm for learning were truly inspiring. The students eagerly participated in the activities we had planned, showcasing their creativity and eagerness to learn new things. It was heartwarming to see their excitement and passion for education, . As the workshop progressed, it became evident that the students were not only eager to learn but also eager to share their own ideas and perspectives, making the experience even more enriching for all involved.
We began with the fundamentals of climate change. Through an activity, we asked them about the climate changes they'd observed in the past two years. One student mentioned the increased frequency of cyclones, while another pointed out hotter summers. When we inquired about the reasons behind these more frequent disasters, a student raised his hand and expressed concern about deforestation. A girl also chimed in, highlighting the damaging effects of fossil fuels on our planet.
Their responses made it clear that they understood the causes and effects of climate change. Therefore, we provided a brief overview of the topic. We then conducted another activity where we collaboratively calculated their carbon footprint. We discussed how everyday actions such as driving cars, using electricity, and consuming goods contribute to carbon emissions, which ultimately worsen climate change.
Next, we discussed the risk management. We weren't surprised to discover that they were familiar with mitigation and adaptation strategies. A productive discussion ensued on how to effectively manage the changing climate.
We wrapped up by sharing our personal approaches to dealing with climate change. Finally, we encouraged them to form a climate club. This club could raise awareness among friends and family, participate in climate-related social welfare activities, and empower them to become future climate changemakers.
Wrapping Up
Our whirlwind day of climate workshops concluded at Bogura Jubilee Institution. Engaging students from classes 6–9, we were impressed by their knowledge and enthusiasm. Interactive activities explored climate change, its causes and effects, and even calculated their carbon footprint. Discussions on mitigation and adaptation strategies showcased their understanding of managing a changing climate. We left them with a challenge: to form a climate club and become future climate warriors!
