By Abbas Nazil
Rising global temperatures are significantly affecting education, with extreme heat making learning conditions difficult.
In Cyprus, classroom temperatures every June often surpass 34°C, creating challenges for students and teachers.
To address this, the country is integrating climate-responsive strategies into school infrastructure and curricula, ensuring that schools not only adapt to changing conditions but also lead sustainability efforts.
A key initiative driving this transformation is the Promoting Energy Efficiency & Developing Innovative Approaches in Schools (PEDIA) project.
This initiative aims to convert school buildings into nearly zero-energy structures, making them more sustainable and conducive to learning. Supported by funding from the European Union and the European Commission, PEDIA is a central component of Cyprus’ Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) for 2030 Country Initiative.
The project is in line with the EU’s climate goals and Cyprus’ Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan, reinforcing the country’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
The initiative takes a holistic approach by upgrading 25 public schools selected through a needs assessment.
Led by architects from the Cyprus Energy Agency, these improvements include installing thermal façades, energy-efficient doors and windows, LED lighting, solar panels, and green roof gardens where feasible.
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These efforts not only enhance energy efficiency but also provide students with healthier and more comfortable learning environments.
Beyond infrastructure upgrades, the project transforms schools into living laboratories where students actively engage with sustainability concepts.
By witnessing the changes firsthand, students develop a deeper understanding of environmental responsibility, often bringing sustainable practices into their homes.
Teachers, too, are leveraging this transformation by integrating sustainability into the curriculum through project-based learning.
Lessons now include practical explorations of renewable energy systems, climate change, and energy efficiency, supported by textbooks, digital platforms, and expert visits.
The impact extends beyond individual schools, fostering a long-term systemic approach that strengthens environmental awareness across communities.
Dr. Aravella Zachariou, Head of the Education for the Environment and Sustainable Development Unit of the Ministry of Education, Sport, and Youth, highlighted the significance of this effort, describing it as an ambitious initiative to reimagine schools as innovative, sustainable spaces.
This initiative is also part of UNESCO’s global Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) for 2030 framework, which encourages multi-stakeholder collaborations to embed sustainability into education systems.
Through technical guidance, capacity-building, and knowledge sharing, UNESCO supports Cyprus and other nations in integrating sustainability into education.
The PEDIA project serves as a model for how schools can drive meaningful environmental change while improving learning conditions, ensuring a more sustainable future for the next generation.
