UOWD at COP29: Driving Conversations on Gender Equality, STEM, and Climate Resilience

Tuesday, 17 December, 2024

The University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) was privileged to participate in COP29, held in Baku, Azerbaijan. The global climate summit brought together world leaders, researchers, and educators to address some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. Representing UOWD were Vidhi Sharma, a PhD student and instructor at the School of Business, and Dr Zeenath Reza Khan, Associate Professor, who delivered an impactful session on sustainability and social impact.

Empowering Girls Through Carbon Literacy and STEM

Vidhi Sharma led a workshop titled "Spotlight on Girls, STEM, and Carbon Literacy," focusing on the intersection of climate resilience, education, and gender equality. The session highlighted how climate change disproportionately affects women and girls in the Global South, particularly in regions such as Bangladesh. By drawing on real-world examples, Vidhi illustrated the tangible impacts of climate events, from displacement to barriers in education, and emphasised how carbon literacy and STEM education can be transformative tools for building resilience.

A standout feature of the workshop was the introduction of the Climate Resilient Girls GPT, an AI-powered tool conceptualised at UOWD. The GPT model enabled participants to explore questions on climate change, carbon literacy, and the role of STEM in promoting gender equity, demonstrating the potential of innovative technologies in fostering education and awareness.

A Platform for Collaboration

UOWD’s participation was part of a broader initiative by the UAE Universities Climate Network, which included institutions such as Khalifa University, Birmingham University Dubai, and New York University Abu Dhabi. The collaborative spirit of the Youth Engagement Workshop underscored the importance of collective action in addressing climate challenges, with each institution bringing unique perspectives to the table.

The response to UOWD’s workshop was overwhelmingly positive. Attendees praised its focus on actionable solutions and the integration of gender equity with STEM and climate literacy. Many participants expressed interest in the AI-powered tool, underscoring the potential for technology to amplify educational impact.

Dr Zeenath Reza Khan reflected on the experience: “Participating in COP29 was both professionally fulfilling and personally meaningful. It was inspiring to see the commitment of global leaders and educators to tackle critical challenges. Our session demonstrated that empowering young women through education is not just an ideal—it’s a necessity for sustainable development.”

Looking Ahead

Building on this momentum, UOWD plans to expand its climate and sustainability initiatives. Upcoming projects include collaborative events with the UOWD Sustainability Club and other student-led organisations to continue driving awareness and action on these critical issues.

As climate challenges grow more urgent, platforms like COP29 serve as reminders of the collective responsibility to act. Through thought leadership, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to education, UOWD remains engaged in fostering meaningful change that transcends borders and disciplines.