As we mark International Day of Education 2025, we find ourselves at an interesting intersection of climate action and technological advancement. This year’s theme, ‘AI and Education: Human Agency in an Automated World’, prompts us to consider how we can harness innovation while keeping humanity – and our planet – at the heart of learning.
Education as a Foundation for Change
At Education for Sustainability, we believe education is the cornerstone of creating solutions for both people and planet. Our vision to build solid foundations for a more sustainable future through education and action has never been more relevant. While AI presents new opportunities for learning, we remain focused on fostering the human connections and practical skills needed for meaningful climate action.
The Challenge Before Us
The statistics are stark: 244 million children remain out of school globally, with 617 million lacking basic literacy and numeracy skills. But these figures tell only part of the story. In Ireland and worldwide, we face an urgent need for climate literacy education that empowers young people to understand and act on the environmental challenges shaping their future.
Our Response: Create Ripples of Impact
Through our Climate Literacy Programmes, we’re working to ensure every child in Ireland has access to quality climate education by 2030. Our approach extends beyond the classroom, creating a ripple effect that flows from schools to households, communities, and businesses.
Our programmes deliver:
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- Hands-on learning experiences that make climate science accessible and actionable
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- Professional development for educators to confidently lead environmental education
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- Community projects that turn knowledge into practical action
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- Support for schools to become sustainable across the ESD’s three pillars of curriculum, campus, and community
Advancing SDG 4: Quality Education
Our work directly supports the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and quality education for all. Through our programmes, we deliver inclusive climate education that caters to diverse learning needs while building critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Our teacher training and comprehensive resources ensure educators feel confident leading environmental education, while our hands-on activities and projects make learning engaging and relevant for all students.
What sets our approach apart is its practical focus. Rather than simply teaching climate science, we empower students to take meaningful action in their communities. This aligns with SDG 4’s emphasis on education for sustainable development, equipping learners with the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable practices and create positive change.
Looking Forward
As we all explore the intersection of AI and education, we remain committed to our core belief: that human connection and practical action are essential for environmental education. While technology can enhance learning, it’s the relationships we build – between students,
teachers, communities, and nature – that drive lasting change.
Join us in marking International Day of Education by considering how we can all contribute to a more sustainable future through education. Whether you’re an educator, student, parent, or community member, there’s a role for you in this vital work.
Want to be part of the change? We are currently enrolling schools for our fully-funded 8-Week Climate Literacy Programme for primary and secondary schools.
