Nadhim Zahawi Advocates for Weekend Demonstrations as Cop26 Progresses
Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi has called on young climate activists to hold their protests during weekends instead of skipping school. His remarks came as youth demonstrators gathered in Glasgow, demanding decisive climate action from world leaders amid the ongoing Cop26 summit.
Prominent activists such as Greta Thunberg and Vanessa Nakate are set to address crowds at the end of a march through the city. Speaking to Times Radio, Zahawi expressed his support for lawful demonstrations but urged students to avoid disrupting their education. “We have two weekends of Cop26 here in Glasgow. I would encourage them to make their voices heard then,” he said, adding that he is open to engaging with young people who wish to discuss their concerns.
As part of Cop26, Zahawi will outline government initiatives to place climate change at the centre of education. These include a new Climate Leaders Award, modelled on the Duke of Edinburgh scheme, recognising students’ efforts to protect the environment. Additionally, a draft sustainability and climate change strategy aims to integrate climate evidence into the curriculum, providing teachers with resources for science, geography, and citizenship education.
The strategy, however, states that schools should remain impartial. It emphasises that while encouraging interest in climate issues is important, promoting participation in specific campaigns or protests is inappropriate.
Zahawi highlighted the importance of inspiring students to pursue careers in science, technology, and innovation as a way to combat climate change. He also announced the Department for Education’s plans to test “energy pods,” a carbon-neutral alternative to traditional heating systems, in schools.
Education ministers from various countries will join Zahawi in a panel discussion during the summit, discussing innovative approaches to integrating climate awareness into education.
Nick Brook, deputy general secretary of the school leaders’ union NAHT, acknowledged the passion of young people about climate change. He emphasised the need for schools to balance supporting activism with minimising disruptions to learning.
