Climate Action Through Higher Education: The Impact of Commonwealth ScholarshipsÌý
The ÌÇÐĹÙÍø has published a policy briefing paper examining how Commonwealth Scholarships support the UK’s climate goals. This paper explores how Commonwealth Scholarships support climate action by building skills, knowledge, and leadership through higher education,Ìýand looks atÌýthe contributions of Commonwealth Alumni to tackling climate change, particularly in countries that are most vulnerable to its impact.Ìý
Climate change is already affecting lives and livelihoods across the Commonwealth. Many Commonwealth Scholarships are awarded to candidates from these regionsÌýwho are studyingÌýin environmental and related fields. Evidence fromÌýCommonwealth Alumni shows thatÌýthe majorityÌýhave gone on to make a positive impact on climate change or environmental protection in their home countries.Ìý
ThisÌýbriefingÌýidentifiesÌýthreeÌýdifferentÌýwaysÌýin which alumniÌýmake theseÌýcontributions.
First, Commonwealth Alumni are helping communities adapt to climate changeÌýby supporting climateÌýresilient farming, improving water management, reducing disaster risks, and strengthening local preparedness. TheseÌýprojects often work closely with local organisations, farmers’ groups, and public authorities, helping to buildÌýlong-termÌýcapacity and local ownership.Ìý
Second,ÌýCommonwealthÌýAlumni areÌýinfluencing environmental governance and policy.ÌýThey haveÌýcontributed to national climate strategies, environmental laws, and international agreements, and have supported more transparent and inclusiveÌýdecision-making. Many also play a role in sharing knowledge between countries and sectors, helpingÌýgood ideasÌýtravel further.Ìý
Third, Commonwealth Alumni are supporting green transitions andÌýnature-basedÌýsolutions. This includes work onÌýrenewable energy, ecosystem restoration, sustainable land use, and lowÌýcarbon technologies. These activities often combine environmental protection with economic opportunities, supporting green growth and fair transitions.Ìý
Overall, the briefing shows thatÌýCommonwealth Scholarships are an effective way for the UK to support global climate action.ÌýBy investing in education, the programme helps deliver practical climate solutions, stronger institutions, and lasting development benefits,Ìýwhile reinforcing the UK’s international partnerships.Ìý
The full policy brief can be read here.Ìý