THE Climate Change Commission (CCC) recently rolled out a five-day Modular Training Program for higher education institutions (HEIs) to train academic practitioners across Luzon in various aspects of climate science and risk-based action planning.
The first training was held fromJune 4 to 8. The training under the Communities for Resilience (COR) Convergence Program is like a trainers’ training program to boost the capacity of various stakeholders in combating climate change at the local level.
In a statement, the CCC, through Commissioner Rachel S. Herrera, said that after completing the training program the HEIs are expected to provide technical support and mentoring to local government units (LGUs).
The mentoring aims to enhance LGUs’ awareness and deepen their understanding of the science and issues of climate change.
Herrera said the convergence among all stakeholders, especially the academic community, fostered through the program, would bring various stakeholders closer to achieving the country’s goals.
“Our framework is simple: We want climate science to lead the way. We believe that science should inform policy and action, in order for our efforts to be systematic and effective, especially at the local level. We, therefore, view HEIs as crucial partners in our advocacy and work,” Herrera said.
The program intends to strengthen the technical capacities of LGUs in implementing and institutionalizing climate-change adaptation and mitigation.
The formulation of science- and risk-based local climate-change action plans (LCCAPs) is one area where academic institutions could help LGUs to adequately prepare for and address climate and disaster risks.
The LCCAPs also serve as a valuable tool for local governments in accessing the P1-billion People’s Survival Fund for local adaptation projects.
“What we aspire to cultivate through this program is a symbiotic relationship among the national government, LGUs, academe and other stakeholders—such that all of us do not act in isolation of each other, but through a holistic approach toward a secure and sustainable future for the country,” Herrera said.