Maldives' Green Schools: Nurturing Sustainable Leaders for a Greener Future

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As part of the country's  ESD for 2030 Country initiative, the Fehi Madharusa framework has been seamlessly integrated into classroom practices across schools nationwide. This comprehensive approach encompasses transformative school governance, systems, educational programs, and community involvement. The initiative has seen successful implementation in seven pilot schools, with 68 teachers benefiting from capacity development training.

At Hiriya School in Male', Deputy Principal Dhmed Didi spearheads the eco-conscious movement alongside dedicated teachers and students, using the program to cultivate an environmentally conscious culture within the school community.

"We've embraced alternative, eco-friendly practices such as eschewing balloon decorations and phasing out plastic bottles and bags on campus," explains Deputy Principal Didi.

Under her leadership, the school emphasizes hands-on experiential learning to foster curiosity and inquiry among students. Through the Environmental Club, students are involved in developing a hydroponic farming system, enabling them to cultivate lettuce in the school's greenhouse. This sustainable practice not only conserves water but also promotes organic agriculture, instilling values of sustainability among students.

"Students have developed a profound connection with our environment, actively participating in eco-friendly initiatives and embracing sustainability as a core value. Their enthusiastic engagement in environmental activities signals a promising future for our planet," says Deputy Principal Didi, reflecting on the positive impact of the program.

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Initiatives to Green Schools and Foster Environmental Awareness

At Maafushi School, another pilot school in Male’ Atoll, teacher Aishath Asifa shares her insights into implementing green activities as part of the school's sustainability efforts: "We've become more mindful of the resources we utilize, such as water and electricity, and we've also made efforts to reduce paper usage for printing."

The project acknowledges the importance of equipping educators with the necessary tools to impart key competencies and values related to climate change resilience and environmental sustainability in schools.

“Our collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the National Institute for Education of the Maldives in developing the Fehi Madharusa Framework has been an exciting journey of discovery and innovation,” says Azhoora Ahmed, Manager at the NGO Soneva Namoona. “Through the initial pilot program, we encountered and addressed the challenges in implementing the framework's lesson plans and activities. This iterative process empowered us to adapt and refine the framework, ensuring its effectiveness in nurturing green schools. Our commitment to sustainable education remains steadfast as we continue to evolve and enhance the Fehi Madharusa Framework for the benefit of future generations.”

The project has sparked interest among young students to better understand local and global sustainability challenges.

“Thanks to the Fehi Madharusa program, students have become deeply attuned to our environment, actively participating in eco-friendly initiatives and embracing sustainability as a way of life,” says Ms. Didi, Deputy Principal at Hiriya School. "Their heightened awareness and enthusiastic engagement in environmental activities signify a promising future for our planet.”

The implementation of Maldives’ green school framework is an excellent example of how teachers and learners are empowered to collaborate as sustainable agents of change, integrating ESD into school activities. As this initiative expands throughout the country, the impact of prioritizing sustainability within schools becomes more significant in transforming learning environments.

Source: UNESCO