Partnering with Students in Climate Education

Abstract

<p><strong>"Partnering with Students in Climate Education: HKU Climate Ambassador"</strong> and <strong>"Climate Ambassadors: Desert Service-learning Trip in Mainland China,"</strong> are the two projects supported by <strong>HKU Teaching Development Grant</strong> and the <strong>Teaching Development and Language Enhancement Grant 2022-25</strong>, respectively.</p><p><br></p><p>These programs are centered around the <strong>"Students as Partners"</strong> approach, with <strong>undergraduate students</strong> being the primary beneficiaries. In the HKU Climate Ambassador program, students will be trained as <strong>Climate Ambassadors</strong>, guided by <strong>mentors</strong> who are students and alumni of the Master of Science in Environmental Management. Emphasizing the interdisciplinary nature of climate-related initiatives, we actively encourage collaboration between students from various faculties to co-create <strong>innovative solutions</strong>.</p><p><br></p><p>The program begins with <strong>comprehensive training sessions</strong> designed to equip students with essential knowledge and skills. After the training, students will have the opportunity to <strong>develop their own projects focused on climate-related initiatives</strong>, aiming to make a meaningful impact on broader communities. To showcase the experiences and achievements of our students, we will be hosting a <strong>student-led conference</strong> in June 2024. Following the conference, selected Climate Ambassadors and mentors will have the unique opportunity to participate in a <strong>desert service-learning trip in mainland China</strong> in July 2024.</p><p><br></p><p>The expected outcomes will include the development of a climate education program which echoes the <strong>United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG) </strong>, including Targets 4.7 Education for Sustainable Development and Global Citizenship, 12.8 Promote Universal Understanding of Sustainable Lifestyles, and 13.3 Build Knowledge and Capacity to Meet Climate Change, <strong>a teacher-student partnership model </strong>under environmental sustainability contexts and <strong>higher students’ ownership</strong>. Students would also gain better understanding of climate-related initiatives and create impact within and beyond HKU communities.</p><p><br></p><p>These projects will demonstrate “Students as Partners” at multiple levels.</p>