Kerala Schools Empower Youth with 'Green Skills' to Tackle Disasters in Vulnerable Wayanad

In the lush, yet ecologically fragile, district of Wayanad, Kerala, a quiet revolution is unfolding within school walls. Faced with the increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters, particularly the haunting memory of recent landslides, educational institutions are stepping up to empower their youngest citizens.

This innovative approach sees students not just as learners, but as vital 'green volunteers,' equipped with essential skills to safeguard their communities and environment.

The 'Green Volunteers' programme, a collaborative effort by the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) and UNICEF, is a beacon of proactive disaster preparedness.

Targeting students from Class 8 to 12, the initiative moves beyond traditional textbooks, immersing young minds in the practicalities of environmental conservation and disaster risk reduction. The goal is clear: to foster a generation that understands and respects its environment, capable of acting as first responders and advocates for sustainable living.

What exactly are these 'green skills'? The curriculum is diverse and deeply rooted in local context.

Students are learning to identify endemic plant and animal species, understanding the delicate balance of their local ecosystem. They delve into critical topics like soil conservation, efficient water management techniques, and the importance of local food systems for resilience. Crucially, they are also educated on the impacts of climate change, the science behind natural hazards, and the implementation of early warning systems – knowledge that can be the difference between life and death during a crisis.

Imagine a high school student, once confined to classroom theories, now confidently demonstrating soil stabilization techniques or explaining the indicators of an impending flood to their neighbours.

This is the transformation happening in Wayanad. These young green volunteers are being trained not just to react, but to anticipate, mitigate, and educate. Their training involves engaging field visits, hands-on practical demonstrations, and direct interactions with environmental experts and disaster management professionals, making learning both dynamic and deeply impactful.

Wayanad's unique geographical and ecological characteristics make it particularly vulnerable.

Nestled in the Western Ghats, the district has experienced significant environmental degradation due to deforestation, unscientific land-use practices, and the relentless march of climate change. The devastating Puthumala landslide serves as a stark reminder of nature's formidable power and the urgent need for community-level preparedness.

By focusing on Wayanad, the KSDMA and UNICEF are addressing a critical need, turning vulnerability into a catalyst for positive change.

This initiative is more than just an academic exercise; it's an investment in community resilience and a testament to the power of youth engagement. By instilling these 'green skills,' schools in Wayanad are not only preparing students for a future fraught with environmental challenges but are also empowering them to actively shape that future.

These young eco-warriors are poised to become the custodians of their land, leading the charge towards a more sustainable, prepared, and resilient Kerala, one green skill at a time.