The first cohort of Uzbekistan’s Young Climate Champions marked a year of impactful environmental advocacy and action, as UNICEF, the Ministry of Preschool and School Education, and the International Public Foundation Zamin came together to celebrate their achievements for the 2024–2025 academic year.
Launched in August 2024, the national network brought together 50 adolescents from 20 schools across Uzbekistan, trained by UNICEF to become leaders in climate education and action.
Over the course of the year, these youth champions organized 260 eco-events, mobilizing over 17,400 children and young people nationwide. Their efforts led to the planting of 3,200 trees and the collection and sorting of 13 tons of waste.
“First generation champions demonstrated knowledge, potential, and courage on this path,” said Khilola Umarova, Minister of Preschool and School Education. “Through seminars and practical exercises, Young Climate Champions gained valuable information, learned new skills, and most importantly, made valuable contributions to the fight against climate change.”
The initiative is part of a broader strategy under Uzbekistan’s National and Regional Strategies on Promoting Sustainable Development Culture, signed in 2023. The Young Climate Champions not only sparked climate consciousness in their communities but also made their voices heard internationally, participating in regional conferences and COP-29 in Baku—marking the first time Uzbek youth spoke at the UN Climate Change Conference.
“You are not just the leaders of tomorrow—you are the change-makers of today,” said Regina Castillo, UNICEF Representative in Uzbekistan. “UNICEF remains deeply committed to standing with you—to amplify your voices, support your journeys, and invest in your potential.”
Their momentum continues into the next academic year. The Young Climate Champions network recently received accreditation from YOUNGO, the official children and youth constituency of the UNFCCC, to host Uzbekistan’s first Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) in August 2025. Recommendations from this gathering will be presented at COY-20 and COP-30 in Brazil, shining a global spotlight on the climate challenges faced by Uzbekistan.
“A year ago, 50 young eco-activists completed an intensive training camp. Now you serve as an example for future generations,” said Tamila Alieva, Head of the Executive Organ at Zamin Foundation. “Keep acting, uniting, and inspiring others. Be a driving force for change.”
To build on this momentum, a new call for the second cohort of Young Climate Champions will open in July 2025, inviting students from across Uzbekistan to join and scale up this pioneering climate action movement.
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