The Summer School on Climate Change for Youth has started in Turkmenistan. The first session has already taken place at the Bouygues Turkmen training center.

For 35 youth leaders from across Turkmenistan, the school’s programme will run until August and aims to equip young people with the skills needed to take climate action in their communities and beyond, UNICEF said in a press release.

Over the course of three months, participants will deepen their knowledge in the areas of climate change, disaster risk reduction and water management, as well as develop leadership and negotiation skills to participate in national and international dialogues.

Several sessions of the Summer School will contribute to the preparation for the Local Climate Youth Conference (LCOY) and the development of the National Youth Statement of Turkmenistan.

The Summer School follows on from the successful UNICEF Eco-Camp 2024 and is an important step in increasing youth participation in environmental protection in Turkmenistan.

Alexander Nartea, UNICEF Deputy Representative in Turkmenistan, noted at the school opening ceremony:

“This program is not just training, it is an investment in Turkmenistan’s future climate leadership. We are proud to work with passionate youth and partners to advance actions that benefit people and the planet.”