The U.S. Peace Corps hosted a week-long climate leadership training for 36 Philippine Science High School (PSHS) students nationwide in Iloilo City, equipping them with tools to design and implement sustainable climate solutions in their schools and communities.
The workshop, titled “Building Student Volunteer Leaders for Climate Change Initiatives,” ran from November 18 to 22 and was funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development. It emphasized the role of STEM education in addressing global climate challenges.
“We are partnering with the PSHS System to tap the potential of STEM education when applied to climate action,” said Peace Corps Country Director Marguerite Roy.
“I am excited to see how the participating students will build on this training, bring their projects to life, and influence others to become agents of change,” she added.
The participants conceptualized, planned, and prototyped climate solutions, which they will implement after consultations with their local communities. These projects will highlight the importance of volunteerism and the youth’s role in combating climate change.
The training also included 16 PSHS faculty members, eight Peace Corps Volunteers, and their local partners.
They participated in discussions and field visits to local climate resilience projects, including the Leganes Integrated Katunggan EcoPark, Climate Field School, and Orchard Valley Farm.
The visits provided practical insights into climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, disaster risk reduction, and the importance of community-driven volunteerism.
“This program provides a structured framework for advocacy, which will be incorporated in our climate action plan in the PSHS System,” said PSHS System Executive Director Ronnalee Orteza.
The workshop aligns with Project Planet Lemniscate, a PSHS initiative using project-based learning and design thinking to empower students to create innovative solutions for climate change.
“The involvement of our youth is crucial. We cannot afford to wait until it’s too late,” Orteza added.
The workshop served as a platform for students to collaborate with climate experts and fellow volunteers, refine their project proposals, and receive feedback on their prototypes.
The U.S. Peace Corps, through this initiative, reaffirmed its commitment to addressing climate change by empowering young leaders and strengthening partnerships with local organizations in the Philippines.
By fostering volunteerism and innovation, the workshop not only empowered PSHS students but also demonstrated the potential of STEM education to drive impactful climate action.