The Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS) has trained environmental teachers in Dodoma City on climate change and environmental conservation, as part of efforts to strengthen climate literacy in schools and build community resilience against the growing impacts of global warming.
The training, conducted on July 29–30 at Mtemi Mazengo Primary School, was organised by TFS Central Zone in collaboration with the Dodoma Regional and District Education Offices.
It focused on enhancing teachers’ understanding of the causes, effects and mitigation measures related to climate change.
The initiative comes as Tanzania continues to experience the effects of climate variability, including prolonged droughts, erratic rainfall and environmental degradation, which have increased pressure on livelihoods and natural resources.
Speaking during the training, TFS Conservation Officer Ms Zureikha Abubakary Kachwamba said teachers play a critical role in shaping environmental awareness among young people and can help foster long-term behavioural change within communities.
She urged participants to adopt innovative teaching methods that encourage students to appreciate the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable resource management.
“Teachers have the opportunity to influence future generations. By equipping students with environmental knowledge, they can become agents of change both at school and in their communities,” she said.
Dodoma Regional Education Officer Mr Kiduma Mageni commended TFS for partnering with education authorities to expand climate change awareness and environmental education.
He noted that integrating environmental conservation into learning programmes is essential for developing a generation capable of responding to emerging environmental challenges.
“Climate change is no longer a future concern; it is a reality affecting communities today. Teachers should use the knowledge gained from this training to promote environmental stewardship among students and support tree-planting initiatives in schools and surrounding areas,” he said.
Mr Mageni also encouraged teachers to promote beekeeping as an alternative livelihood activity that can generate income while supporting environmental conservation efforts.
Environmental experts increasingly view schools as strategic platforms for climate education, as they help nurture environmentally conscious citizens and encourage practical conservation measures at the community level.
The training forms part of ongoing efforts by TFS to promote sustainable forest management, environmental conservation and climate change adaptation through education and community engagement.
