Children in Bangladesh spread climate change knowledge to adults
Listening Learn more about how children in Bangladesh learn about climate change and then pass this knowledge on to adults. In this way, families in the village can better prepare for cyclones and floods.
Children in a village near the sea in Bangladesh are experiencing the changes in climate. According to SNIAM, climate is defined as the average weather over 20-30 years. Despite their young age, the children have noticed that both cyclones and floods have become more frequent, which they understand is due to climate change. They are active members of a children's club that they attend almost every day after school.
- We take care of the village by keeping it clean, planting trees and sorting garbage," say the children in the club, sharing their interventions to improve the environment. They are well aware of the importance of fighting climate change.
In the village where the children live, the climate is changing.
In the village where the children live, the climate is changing.
Strategies for protection against natural disasters
Today they are discussing how to protect themselves against natural disasters. Children have a right to protection, and people in the village need to adapt to a changing climate. The children are divided into groups to brainstorm strategies to deal with cyclones before, during and after the disaster.
The children suggest several measures, such as raising the edge of the dam to prevent flooding and saving seeds to secure food supplies. They have also planted trees with strong roots to prevent soil erosion and tall palm trees to act as lightning rods.
- It is important to keep medicine and important documents in a safe place, Jion points out.
- We need to reinforce our houses and secure loose objects, adds another.
Soraya plays an old lady in the drama.
The children are acting out a drama about what to do when a cyclops occurs. In the picture you can see Bilal.
Soraya plays an old lady in the drama.
The children are acting out a drama about what to do when a cyclops occurs. In the picture you can see Bilal.
Kids' club activities
During the game about climate change and the dance that follows, Soraya shows her passion for dancing to the song she has been practicing. With Jion's help, they plug in speakers to enhance the experience.
Some children perform a drama in which Billal warns of an upcoming cyclone and urges everyone to seek shelter. Soraya portrays an elderly lady who cannot leave her home, but other children come to her aid and make sure she takes important things with her.
The drama has been played out for the whole village, and thanks to the children's interventions in the club, the village is now better prepared for natural disasters.
- What do adults say about climate and hurricanes?
- "Adults don't know more than we children teach them," says Rubaya.
Published: 04 May 2023
