UNDP and the Ministry of Education and Science of the Kyrgyz Republic are strengthening climate education in schools

November 3, 2025
Team members at a conference table reviewing documents; one person holds a large map.

Teachers during UNDP training on Climate Box

Photo: UNDP Kyrgyz Republic

Bishkek, 3 November 2025 — The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the Ministry of Education of the Kyrgyz Republic, conducted a series of training sessions for teachers on the use of the "Climate Box" educational tool. This initiative was part of the "Climate Education for Advancing the SDGs and Climate Action" project.

From October 16 to 30, approximately 100 teachers from all regions of the country, including the capital, completed intensive training aimed at developing their skills in integrating climate topics into the school curriculum and extracurricular activities. Among the participants were also teachers working with children with disabilities, highlighting the project's commitment to an inclusive approach.

"Climate Box" is a global, innovative, interactive, and interdisciplinary educational initiative by UNDP aimed at raising awareness of climate change among schoolchildren. This educational toolkit helps children understand the causes and consequences of climate change in an engaging and accessible way, develop environmental thinking, and foster responsible behavior. Currently, the Climate Box is available in 17 languages ​​and has been adapted for use in 12 countries and 3 regions, reaching over 50,000 students and over 7,000 teachers worldwide.

In the Kyrgyz Republic, the material has been adapted to the country's 12-year school education standard and translated into Kyrgyz. It includes an up-to-date analysis of climate trends up to 2024 and aligns with the country's educational priorities.

The Climate Box's methodology covers a wide range of subjects—from natural sciences to humanities—and utilizes a practice-oriented approach, including case studies, creative assignments, and discussions. Teachers also explored gender vulnerability to climate risks and systems thinking methods in teaching schoolchildren.

Particular attention was paid to creating an accessible learning environment for all children. The Kyrgyz Republic was the first country among the project's participating countries to develop and implement adapted versions of the Climate Box in Easy-to-Read and Braille formats. These materials enable children with visual and intellectual disabilities to fully participate in the educational process.

Teachers from Bishkek participated in person, while educators from the regions joined online. Upon completion of the training, each participant received a "Climate Box" kit for further use in lessons and extracurricular activities.

The "Climate Education for the Advancement of SDGs and Climate Action" project is being implemented with the support of the UNDP Russia Trust Fund.