Climate education for students of classes 8 and 9 in govt schools in Maharashtra

Pune: Students in classes 8 and 9 across Maharashtra's govt schools will soon gain expertise in climate science, renewable energy, and the global green economy, courtesy a new digital learning partnership between the state govt and Cambridge University Press & Assessment.The state school education department, through the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), has signed an agreement to introduce the ‘Cambridge Climate Quest' programme. The initiative aims to strengthen climate literacy and prepare students for sustainable lifestyles and future career opportunities in the environmental sector.Arun Rajamani, managing director (South Asia) at Cambridge University Press & Assessment, said, "Education is the starting point for addressing the complex challenges of sustainable growth. This partnership with the Maharashtra govt will expand access to climate education and help students become informed and responsible citizens."The programme will be delivered in both English and Marathi via Cambridge's digital learning platform. Expected to reach nearly two lakh students in govt schools, the curriculum covers the science of climate change and its impact on ecosystems, communities, and global economies. It also focuses on practical solutions, such as renewable energy, responsible consumption, and climate resilience, encouraging students to apply these concepts to real-life situations.School education minister Dada Bhuse said the programme offers a structured approach to environmental issues. "The initiative will begin with classes 8 and 9 and may be expanded in the coming years. Additionally, the department plans to promote awareness regarding hygiene and environmental conservation activities in schools starting this June," he said.Minister of state for school education, Pankaj Bhoyar, added that the programme would expose students to global environmental knowledge. He highlighted that students who perform well will receive a joint certificate from Cambridge University Press & Assessment and the Govt of Maharashtra.As part of the rollout, Cambridge will provide digital learning modules, teacher training sessions, user manuals, and progress monitoring systems. The implementation will be coordinated by SCERT in collaboration with District Institutes of Education and Training (DIET) and participating schools across the state.