GEMS Education students partook in the youth dialogue at the Abu Dhabi Climate Meeting for the UN Climate Action Summit, an initiative by the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment in collaboration with the Federal Youth Authority and the United Nations. Over 50 students from GEMS Education appeared the Youth dialogue programme- ENABLING YOUTH IN CLIMATE ACTION.

Students from GEMS United Indian School Abu Dhabi and Cambridge International School Abu Dhabi interacted with ministers and high-level dignitaries to discuss issues connected to youth empowerment and engagement in climate action.

The youth dialogue gave insights on the urgency to act upon climate change. The discussion continued to tackle various queries put forward by the participants. We are extremely grateful to have had the honor of taking part in this event, said Krishna Sunil, a GEMS United Indian School student who participated in the dialogue.

Hiba Shaik from Cambridge International School Abu Dhabi said: We have observed. Now we must act.

Kelvin Hornsby, Vice-president, GEMS Cambridge Brand Leader, CEO and Principal, GEMS Cambridge International School Abu Dhabi, said: Our students are so passionate about the environment and the effect of climate change so this was a fantastic opportunity for them to articulate their views and ask their questions in front of a highly influential audience. They feel lucky to represent the youth of Abu Dhabi and be a part of something that could make a positive change in the world.

This event was the global introductory meeting for the UN Climate Summit to be held in New York on 23 September 2019. The UN Climate Summit aims to both demonstrate action already happening and build the political will to undertake more ambitious action in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement. Leaders attending the Summit must present initiatives that are having tangible impacts in climate mitigation and adaptation, as well as evidence that they are ready to implement further action through policies, new technologies, financial initiatives, business solutions by 2020 and beyond.