The UNESCO Madanjeet Singh Centre for South Asia Water Management (UMCSAWM), University of Moratuwa, recently hosted the Unveiling of Climate Science Literacy Posters, an initiative spearheaded by the UNESCO New Delhi Office to foster climate awareness and education among young minds. This event brought together experts, students, and academics to emphasize the importance of climate science literacy in addressing global challenges. Designed to engage and inspire the next generation of climate scientists, the program featured interactive activities, expert lectures, and knowledge-sharing sessions.

Thirty advanced-level students from two nearby local schools, Central College – Piliyandala and Science College – Mount Lavinia, following the Physical Science stream (Mathematics), participated in the Climate Awareness Quiz, accompanied by their science teachers. These students, representing the future of scientific inquiry and environmental stewardship, had the opportunity to interact with leading climate experts and deepen their understanding of climate change and its far-reaching implications.

The event featured two distinguished guest lecturers. Dr. Benno Böer, Chief of Natural Sciences at UNESCO New Delhi, delivered a compelling lecture emphasizing disaster resilience through climate science literacy. He highlighted the importance of understanding the climate system, its impacts, and how human activities influence it. Dr. Böer explained why climate literacy is essential, focusing on its role in informed decision-making, climate action, disaster risk reduction, community empowerment, and global collaborations. He also addressed the key challenges to achieving widespread climate science literacy, including limited access to education, the complexity of climate science, cultural and political barriers, and geographic and social disparities.

Prof. A.W. Jayawardena, Adjunct Professor at the University of Hong Kong (HKU), explored the theme “Climate Change – Past, Present, and Future” and examined the role of climate change in global warming. He pointed out the observable transformations in the Earth’s system, such as melting glaciers, rising sea levels, and extreme weather patterns. He critically analyzed the use and misuse of terms like “climate change” and “global warming,” emphasizing that while scientists and policymakers assert that the scientific basis is settled, the real challenge now lies in implementing decisive actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Referring to IPCC’s goal of limiting global temperature rise within 2°C, he stressed the urgency of adopting effective mitigation and adaptation strategies.

The event also featured an interactive discussion session, allowing students and attendees to engage with the speakers. The discussions delved into pressing climate issues, local and global environmental challenges, and the role of scientific research in shaping sustainable solutions. Students were encouraged to think critically about their role in climate action and disaster resilience. The Climate Awareness Quiz provided an engaging platform for students to assess their understanding of climate science concepts and apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.

As part of the initiative, Climate Science Literacy Guidelines brochures were distributed to attendees, reinforcing the importance of climate education and awareness. Additionally, the printed book “The Water, Energy, and Food Security Nexus in Asia and the Pacific: Focusing on Central and South Asia,” edited by Zafar Adeel and Dr. Benno Böer, was shared with participants to provide a broader perspective on regional climate challenges and sustainable solutions. The event concluded with a certificate and awards distribution ceremony, where Dr. Benno Böer and Prof. A.W. Jayawardena recognized students’ participation in the quiz and discussions, encouraging them to continue exploring climate science and its applications.

The event was attended by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, the Registrar, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, the Head of the Department of Civil Engineering, representatives of the Sri Lanka National Commission for UNESCO (SLNCU), overseas and local candidates from the MSc in Water Resources Engineering and Management program, and other distinguished invitees. Through this initiative, UNESCO New Delhi and UMCSAWM underscored the significance of climate literacy in equipping future generations to tackle climate change and disaster risks. By providing students with scientific knowledge and fostering engagement with experts, this event marked a crucial step toward building a more informed, climate-resilient society.