Pakistani Teen’s Climate Advocacy Inspires Global Change

HUB, Pakistan — Zunaira Qayyum, a 14-year-old ninth-grader from Balochistan province, is making headlines for her remarkable climate advocacy and commitment to girls’ education. Named a “Youth Advocate for Girls’ Empowerment and Climate Action” by UNICEF, Qayyum’s journey began in her hometown of Hub, a small town grappling with the devastating impacts of climate change.

In 2022, Qayyum participated in a UNICEF Policy Research Challenge (PRC), focusing on the effects of climate-induced floods and heatwaves on girls’ education in Hub. Her research, a winning entry, propelled her onto the global stage. “Coming from a small area, a small village named Zehri, coming from ther to the world stage was not an easy task for me but still I never gave up on my dreams and followed them,” Qayyum said in an interview.

Balochistan faces immense challenges regarding women’s education. It has one of the world’s lowest female literacy rates, with many girls dropping out by grades four and five. Poverty, limited schools, poor infrastructure, security concerns, and cultural barriers contribute to this crisis. the catastrophic 2022 floods, which submerged a third of Pakistan, killing over 1,700 and affecting more than 33 million, exacerbated thes issues. The floods caused approximately $30 billion in damages and economic losses, and damaged nearly 27,000 schools across Pakistan, leaving two million children without access to education, according to UNICEF. Balochistan was particularly hard hit, with over 3,000 schools damaged.

in 2024 alone, climate-related disasters disrupted schooling for over 2.6 million children in Pakistan, highlighting the country’s vulnerability to recurring floods, droughts, and heatwaves. Balochistan, comprising 43 percent of Pakistan’s landmass, lags behind other provinces in nearly all growth indicators, including literacy and girls’ education.

Qayyum’s research highlighted the impact of the 2022 floods on education in Hub. “Flood-induced damages in 2022 really disturbed the education sector in Hub,like the rescheduling of students,schools were destroyed due to floods. Particularly in rural areas of Hub, schooling was resumed in huts and students got disturbed,” she explained.

Her advocacy has taken her to international platforms,including the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku,Azerbaijan,in November 2024. “COP29 experience was very engaging as I saw so many people who were passionate about climate change coming from different areas and countries,” she shared. “I met many international and national leaders there, which was very motivating for me.”

Abdul Raziq, the principal of Qayyum’s school, praised her “dedication and maturity.” “When UNICEF named Zunaira as their Youth Advocate, it was a moment of pride for her parents, teachers and schoolmates,” he said.“I believe if we provide a platform to our girls, they can perform better in all fields.”

Abdullah Fadil,the UNICEF representative in Pakistan,emphasized the importance of youth advocacy in addressing climate change and empowering marginalized communities. in a statement following Qayyum’s appointment, he said, “The climate crisis poses one of the biggest challenges we have ever faced, but when I listen to Zunaira and the children of Pakistan, I find hope and inspiration for the future.” He continued, “we must do more to empower children and young people with opportunities to lead, act, and help this country prosper.”

Qayyum sees her work with UNICEF as a “beacon of hope” to drive societal change. Her message to the people of Balochistan is clear: “So, this is my message to the Baloch people, all of Balochistan,” Qayyum said. “They should educate their daughters.”

Headline: “Empowering the Next Generation: How Zunaira Qayyum is Revolutionizing Girls’ Education and Climate Action”

Opening Statement:

in a world where climate change and gender inequality continue to intersect, the story of Zunaira Qayyum, a 14-year-old climate advocate from Balochistan, pakistan, stands as a shining example of hope and resilience. What motivates a young girl from a remote village to inspire change on the global stage? We delve into this remarkable journey with insights from a leading expert in climate advocacy and education.

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Interview with Dr. Nida Ahmed, Expert in Climate Advocacy and Girls’ Education

Senior editor:

Dr.Ahmed, Zunaira QayyumS work as a “Youth Advocate for Girls’ Empowerment and Climate Action” has taken her from a small village in Balochistan to international platforms like COP29. What drives a young advocate like Zunaira to tackle such important issues at such a young age?

Dr. Nida Ahmed:

The drive behind Zunaira’s advocacy stems from a deep understanding of how interconnected climate change and education are, especially for girls.She witnessed firsthand the devastating impacts of climate-induced floods in her hometown, disrupting the education system and impacting the lives of many young girls. for many like Zunaira, the personal is political and environmental. Her motivation is fueled by the urgent need to protect her community and ensure that the opportunities her family and friends denied her are available to future generations.

senior Editor:

Balochistan has some of the lowest female literacy rates in the world, with many contributing factors like poverty and cultural barriers. How significant is Zunaira’s impact in regions like these, and what challenges does she face?

Dr.Nida Ahmed:

Zunaira’s impact is profound and multifaceted. Her advocacy brings much-needed attention to the struggles facing girls’ education in Balochistan. By bringing her story to the global stage, she challenges stereotypes and shines a light on the potential that lies dormant in these regions due to systemic barriers. The challenges are indeed significant—ranging from societal norms that undervalue girls’ education to insufficient infrastructure exacerbated by climate disasters. though, Zunaira’s story offers a beacon of hope and demonstrates the transformative power of persistence and resilience in overcoming these obstacles.

• Key Challenges:

– Cultural Barriers: Traditional beliefs that prioritize boys’ education over girls’.

– Economic Hurdles: Poverty forces many families to prioritize short-term survival over long-term education.

– Infrastructure Deficits: Recurring climate events like floods devastate physical school structures.

Senior Editor:

In what ways can international and national leaders amplify Zunaira’s advocacy to bring about systemic change for girls’ education in climate-vulnerable regions?

Dr. Nida Ahmed:

To amplify Zunaira’s advocacy, leaders must prioritize education and climate resilience in policy and funding. Investing in resilient infrastructure is crucial to ensure that schools withstand environmental disasters. Moreover, policies that educate and involve the community, particularly parents, can reshape cultural perceptions about girls’ education. International partnerships can also provide technical and financial support to bolster local efforts. Lastly, platforms like the United Nations can offer visibility and validation to young advocates, enabling their voices to influence policy at the highest levels.

Senior Editor:

What long-term impacts can we expect from empowering young climate advocates like Zunaira,and how can communities sustain such momentum?

Dr. Nida Ahmed:

Empowering young climate advocates fosters a culture of change that ripples through communities and across generations. In the long term, we can expect a more informed and motivated youth that prioritizes lasting development and gender equality. By equipping young advocates with education and resources, communities can cultivate leaders who drive local solutions and innovations.To sustain this momentum, continuous support through mentorship programs, access to education, and platforms for global dialog is essential.

• Long-Term Impacts:

– Cultural Conversion: Shifting societal views on girls’ education.

– Policy Influence: Empowered youth advocating for inclusive policies.

– Sustainable Development: communities building resilience against climate change.

Senior Editor:

What steps should individuals take to support and be a part of this movement toward empowering young girls in climate-vulnerable regions?

Dr. Nida Ahmed:

individuals can play a significant role in this movement by raising awareness and advocating for policy changes. Supporting local NGOs that focus on girls’ education and climate resilience can also make a tangible impact. Additionally, fostering global connections through digital platforms allows individuals to amplify voices like Zunaira’s. Education about climate change and gender equality at the grassroots level can inspire young girls and empower them to envision themselves as agents of change.

• Actions for Individuals:

– Support NGOs: Contribute to organizations working on the ground.

– advocate for Policy Changes: Engage in civic actions and dialogues.

– Raise Awareness: Utilize social media to spread impactful stories.

Conclusion:

Zunaira Qayyum’s journey from a flood-stricken village in Balochistan to international advocacy stages exemplifies how resolute young advocates can ignite significant change. Her story is a testament to the power of education and resilience in the face of adversity, inspiring us all to contribute to these movements for a more equitable future.

Engage with Us:

What are your thoughts on the power of young climate advocates like Zunaira? Share your insights in the comments below or join the conversation on social media. Together,we can amplify voices that matter.