British Council and HSBC India Launch ‘Climate Skills’ Project to Empower Indian Youth in Climate Action
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In a combined effort to address climate change concerns, the British Council and HSBC India have launched the ambitious ‘Climate Skills: Seeds for Transition India’ initiative. This programme intends to provide important climate skills to 2,000 adolescents and 300 educators in India, with an emphasis on marginalised groups.
The project, running from July 2024 to February 2026, is part of a larger global endeavour aimed at five countries: India, Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico, and Vietnam. It aims to build a comprehensive climate skills framework, providing young people aged 18 to 30 with the knowledge and leadership skills required to manage climate consequences and actively contribute to the transition to a net-zero economy.
The British Council’s Chief Executive, Scott McDonald, emphasised the partnership’s commitment to sustainability, saying, “Our collaboration with HSBC reflects our shared vision of fostering a more sustainable future.” Hitendra Dave, CEO of HSBC India, emphasised the project’s goal of promoting climate literacy and employment among India’s marginalised young.
The curriculum in India will teach nearly 2,000 climate skills educators and young leaders, as well as 300 master trainers. It will focus on climate awareness, leadership skills, and community participation, preparing participants to handle environmental issues holistically.
The inaugural ceremony on July 11, 2024, featured significant luminaries such as Lindy Cameron CB OBE, the British High Commissioner to India, and included discussions about the project’s goals and execution plans. The event also featured a climate video showing, which emphasised the critical need for action and education in the fight against climate change.
The ‘Climate Skills: Seeds for Transition India’ initiative is an important step towards creating a resilient and sustainable future. The initiative’s goal is to build a competent workforce capable of making substantial change in the country’s environmental landscape by equipping young Indians with the skills needed to lead climate action.