Oxford Saïd Future Climate Innovators Summer School: a ‘life-changing experience’

Oxford: Students from around the world have had a ‘life-changing’ experience at the prestigious Future Climate Innovators Summer School at Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, which has inspired them to become future climate leaders and innovators.

Varun, a student of Kherwadi Municipal Public School, Mumbai, spoke for all, when he said: ‘Attending the Summer School, surrounded by world-renowned experts, is beyond what I ever imagined. The experience has been truly enriching. I have gained valuable insights into climate change, and met students from across the globe, learning about their diverse cultures and perspectives. This journey is shaping up to be a life-changing experience, and I am incredibly grateful to be a part of it.’

Anika, a student of Ryan International School, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the programme’s impact on her worldview: ‘The Summer School has opened my eyes to the interconnectedness of our world and the urgent need for global cooperation in addressing climate change. The opportunity to collaborate with peers from different backgrounds has enriched my understanding and inspired me to take action.’

The landmark Summer School marked the first time in Oxford Saïd’s history that a cohort of high school students — 32 in total — have studied at the School. The students, from a wide range of countries, came together with a shared mission: to address the urgent challenges posed by climate change.

‘The last two weeks have been an amazing experience. Learning from experts and meeting students from all over the world has really opened my eyes to different ways of thinking about climate change. The mix of cultures and ideas made everything so much more interesting and has motivated me to play a bigger role in fighting climate change. As we head back to our respective home countries, I will definitely miss my new friends and the memories we have made together,’ said Ishita, a student of Bright Riders School, Abu Dhabi.

The Future Climate Innovators Summer School stemmed from the Climate Change Challenge 2023, organised by Oxford Saïd and Burjeel Holdings. It offered these pioneering students an immersive experience, providing them with the tools and knowledge necessary to confront climate issues directly. Through a combination of workshops, lectures, and hands-on projects, the participants engaged with world-renowned experts in climate science, business, and policy.

Throughout the two weeks, the students were immersed in learning from leading experts in and forged bonds with peers from across the globe. This unique experience created a network of future leaders, united in their commitment to combating climate change. The diversity of perspectives and cultures represented in the programme added depth to the learning experience and fostered a sense of global unity and shared purpose.

As the programme concludes, these trailblazing students have returned to their communities with fresh ideas, skills, and a shared determination to drive meaningful change in the fight against climate change. The knowledge and experiences gained at the Summer School will undoubtedly influence their future endeavours, inspiring them to become catalysts for environmental sustainability and social impact.