LocationsUNDP’s Youth Climate Action Project Kicked Off Events Across Aral Sea Regions
September 22, 2025
Nukus, 18 September 2025 — To support global and national efforts to combat climate change and mitigate its effects under Sustainable Development Goals and national commitments, the joint project “Empowering and nurturing leadership skills of youth through climate action education in Uzbekistan” kicked off with a series of events across Aral Sea regions to empower youth for a greener future. This project is implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Uzbekistan jointly with the Ministry of Preschool and School Education of Uzbekistan, "Zamin" International Public Foundation, and "Education Above All" Foundation (Qatar).
The event in Nukus brought together 150 schoolchildren and local youth leaders to learn about a project aiming to educate over 1.3 million young people on climate issues and practical skills such as sustainable farming and clean energy. Targeting rural areas facing climate challenges such as drought, water scarcity and desertification, the project aims to empower young people to become leaders in addressing those local climate change challenges.
"Giving young people knowledge and tools to deal with climate change, means investing in Uzbekistan’s sustainable future," stated Laziz Khujakulov, Project Manager at UNDP Uzbekistan. "These events are a first step in turning youth enthusiasm into real action for greener communities."
Through the event, schoolchildren enjoyed interactive sessions such as developing a team of Young Green Ambassadors, masterclass by a climate champion, an exhibition from startup leaders, and an online survey to gauge climate awareness. They also engaged in groupworks to brainstorm and present ideas on climate solutions. This sparked interest and built ties among youth from different places.
First Deputy Minister of Preschool and School Education of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, Aybek Dauletbaev remarked: "We were excited to see so many young faces eager to learn and act on climate matters. This project opens opportunities for our youth to lead changes in their own areas, making our region stronger against tough climate."
Uzbekistan faces rising temperatures, water shortages, and desertification, especially in the Aral Sea regions. From 2025 to 2028 the $7.5 million project will add climate lessons to schools, train teachers, and develop green jobs at Vocational Skills Center (Monocenter). At least half of participants will be young women, promoting equal roles in environmental leadership.
The project supports Uzbekistan’s national climate strategy, delivering long-term, sustainable solutions for regions most affected by climate change.
