BAKU, Nov 19 (Alliance News): Zunaira, a 14-year-old UNICEF Climate Champion from Balochistan, made headlines at COP29 in Baku as the youngest delegate at the global climate conference.
Speaking at the Pakistan Pavilion’s event, ‘Green Skills: What Do Young People Want?’, Zunaira urged policymakers to involve youth in decision-making to ensure proactive climate action.
At the event, which featured experts emphasizing the role of youth in climate action, Zunaira shared her journey of overcoming cultural barriers to bring climate education to her school.
“Youth want climate education, renewable energy, clean drinking water, and to be part of decision-making processes,” she stated.
The session was opened by Romina Khurshid Alam, Prime Minister’s Coordinator for Climate Change, who stressed that youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow but also key agents of change today.
“Young people are essential drivers of climate action,” she noted, highlighting the impact of pollution on children in Pakistan.
Dr. Abid Qaiyum Suleri, Executive Director of SDPI, emphasized that youth are central to both the challenges and solutions of climate change.
He highlighted the importance of green skills in sectors like agriculture, AI, and digital technologies.
MPA Ahmed Iqbal Chaudhary called for more youth representation in decision-making and better infrastructure to support youth and women.
Syeda Amna Batool, MNA and PM Youth Program Focal Person, emphasized engaging youth through programs like the PM Green Youth Program to avoid creating a disillusioned generation.
The event concluded with a call for more youth-led green entrepreneurship initiatives, like the Green Youth Hub, to equip young people with the skills needed for sustainable jobs and climate action.
