11 November 2024, Baku, Azerbaijan – CIFAL Istanbul participated in the COP29 UN Climate Change Conference in collaboration with UNITAR, Bahçeşehir University, CIFAL Istanbul and CIFAL City of London. The event featured a key session on “The Role of Higher Education in Addressing Climate Change: Leadership, Innovation, and Impact,” bringing together academic leaders, policymakers, and sustainability experts to discuss the role of universities in tackling climate change.
The session explored best practices for integrating climate change education into academic programs and training the next generation of leaders in sustainability and environmental stewardship. The discussions emphasized how higher education institutions (HEIs) can contribute to climate action through research, innovation, and policy engagement.
Among the distinguished attendees were Prof. Dr. Esra Hatipoğlu, Rector of Bahçeşehir University, and Cisil Sohodol, Director of CIFAL Istanbul, who highlighted the crucial role of education in addressing global environmental challenges. The session was moderated by Dr. Ebru Canan Sokullu, former Director of CIFAL Istanbul and current Associate Director at CIFAL Global Network, UNITAR.
During the panel discussions, experts underscored the importance of universities serving as key drivers of climate solutions, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and equipping students with the necessary skills to contribute to a sustainable future. The session also reinforced the importance of international academic partnerships in advancing climate resilience strategies.
As climate change continues to present unprecedented challenges, CIFAL Istanbul remains committed to empowering youth, fostering innovative approaches, and strengthening global networks to create a more sustainable world.
