European Union and UNICEF launch Pacific climate-resilient school programme

The European Union and UNICEF have launched the Pacific Climate Resilient Education Systems (Pacific CRES) programme, a five-year initiative designed to strengthen school infrastructure against climate-related disasters. Announced during the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Palau, the programme aims to move Pacific nations away from a cycle of short-term repairs caused by cyclones, floods, and rising sea levels toward long-term, sustainable solutions.

The initiative will support governments in upgrading school facilities with climate-resilient water and sanitation systems, renewable energy, and improved connectivity. It also focuses on strengthening maintenance systems to ensure long-term upkeep of educational buildings.

Approximately 15,000 children in Fiji, the Federated States of Micronesia, Kiribati, and the Solomon Islands are expected to benefit directly from the improved facilities. Additionally, the programme will provide disaster preparedness training to 2,000 teachers and administrators, while engaging roughly 25,000 community members in disaster risk reduction and school maintenance efforts.