UNICEF reports that approximately 250 million children globally missed school due to extreme weather in 2024, with the majority affected in low-income nations. Disruptions stemmed from heatwaves, floods, and cyclones, underscoring the urgent need for resilient educational infrastructure to combat climate change’s severe impact.
According to a recent report by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), nearly 250 million children around the world experienced school interruptions in 2024 due to extreme weather conditions such as heatwaves, floods, and cyclones. This staggering number represents approximately one in seven school-aged children, highlighting the significant impact of climate-related crises on global education. Infrastructure damage was particularly severe in low-income countries in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, but adverse weather events also affected schools in southern Europe.
The consequences of climate change on education are becoming increasingly alarming, as evidenced by UNICEF’s findings. Many regions, especially vulnerable countries, have been grappling with the effects of extreme weather, which not only disrupts schooling but also severely impacts children’s learning environments. The report illustrates the urgent need for resilience in educational systems, particularly in regions already facing socioeconomic challenges due to climate-related disasters.
In summary, UNICEF’s report reveals that millions of children are severely affected by climate-induced crises that interrupt their education. Areas with lower socioeconomic statuses are disproportionately impacted, amplifying existing educational disparities. It is critical for education systems worldwide to adapt to safeguard children’s right to education against the increasing threat of extreme weather events.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
