The International Forum on Education & Climate was a joint event organized by the Ban Ki-moon Centre for Global Citizens, the Foreign Ministry of the Republic of Korea, and the Salzburg Global Seminar. Held at the prestigious Castle Leopoldskron, this event brought together global thought leaders, educators, and policymakers to explore the critical relationship between climate change and education—a topic that aligns closely with the goals of our study programs.
Students from our master’s programs in International Health & Social Management, European Health Economics & Management, as well as our bachelor's students from Nonprofit, Social & Health Care Management (now Social, Health & Public Management), were fortunate to participate in this event. Furthermore, another MCI student of the master’s program Biotechnology and recipient of the Ban Ki-moon Scholarship also joined the forum.
The forum opened with powerful keynote addresses from Ban Ki-moon, former UN Secretary-General, and Heinz Fischer, former President of Austria. Ban Ki-moon, key advocate for the development and adoption of Agenda 2030 and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) spoke passionately about the importance of global citizenship and the role of education in addressing climate change. He emphasized that true change begins when passion is coupled with compassion for others, and when we recognize our collective responsibility to support the most vulnerable in our global community.
Heinz Fischer highlighted the power of individuals, urging the audience not to underestimate their influence. He reminded the participants of the forum that while global challenges may seem insurmountable, each person's actions can create meaningful change, reinforcing the idea that every individual plays a critical role in tackling climate change.
Three dynamic panel discussions followed, delving into key issues surrounding climate education. Topics ranged from empowering educators to integrate climate education effectively, to embedding climate change into formal curricula, and the role of community engagement in driving climate action. Throughout these sessions, it became clear that education is not only about imparting knowledge but also about fostering experiences and creating awareness. One speaker nicely outlined it in saying “making the invisible visible in the classroom”. This approach also encourages action, as it allows students to truly understand the impact of their choices on the planet.
In conclusion, the forum highlighted that the key to effective climate education is not just knowledge, but also fostering a sense of responsibility and empathy. As we prepare the next generation of leaders in health, social management, and public sectors, this event reinforced the importance of empowering our students to make a meaningful difference in the world. For our students, the forum was a valuable opportunity to connect their studies with insights from global experts.
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Group Photo of students and faculty who attended the forum ©MCI
At the International Forum on Education & Climate ©MCI
Schloss Leopoldskron in Salzburg ©MCI
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