Collaborative Efforts to Implement the Safe Back to School and Learning (SB2SL) Initiative, Promoting Safe and Climate-Resilient Education for Children in Sepon, Savannakhet Province

Laos, like the rest of the world, is experiencing the ongoing impacts of climate change, which also affects education. Students, especially disadvantaged children in remote or disaster-prone areas, are among the most impacted.

How can we help them cope?

The Safe Back to School and Learning Initiative (SB2SL) in Sepon, Savannakhet Province, is a remarkable example led by Save the Children Laos. This initiative strengthens resilience among children, caregivers, and school administrations to build a climate-resilient education system. It also promotes equity for ethnic minority children and those with physical disabilities, which not only reduces dropout rates but also improves attendance, supporting students’ progression to lower secondary school by mitigating risks from weather, hazards, and gender-based obstacles.

“When it’s hot, we can’t concentrate at all. The heat exhausts everyone, and some days it’s too hot to stay in the classroom because we don’t have fans or ceilings,” said Joda, adding, “But after renovations, our classroom has better ventilation and ceiling fans. It’s much cooler, and I feel I can focus on learning again. I’m so happy to be at school.”

Joda, a student from an ethnic minority, shared, “I participated in the storytelling activity through photographs, using these images to show everyone how the increased heat is impacting my studies. Our classrooms had no fans or ceilings. I feel so proud! It made me realize that my voice matters, and I was able to help cool down my classroom, which has helped me concentrate more and want to keep coming to school.”

( Photovoice: https://laos.savethechildren.net/news/sci-laos-8th-asean-children%E2%80%... )

“To ensure the sustainability of this initiative, we hope that various sectors, both governmental and organizational, will work together and monitor efforts to provide children with safe schools and facilities that will serve them for many years. Education is the most critical investment for the future of our children. Alongside infrastructure, teachers also play a vital role in helping students receive quality education and accurate knowledge, especially regarding the impact of climate change on their learning,” stated Mr. Anousone Southivong, Deputy Head of the Department of Education and Sports, Savannakhet Province.

Although the project activities have concluded, our commitment to protecting children from unpredictable climate change impacts, threats, and other hazards continues.

Listening to children’s voices and investing in adaptation plans today will help create a sustainable and climate-resilient education system for the future. A brighter future for all our children is possible with the participation of everyone.