Successful Completion of the International Summer School on Climate Change and Disaster Management in South Asia

The International Summer School on Climate Change and Disaster Management in South Asia, organized by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung e.V. (RECAP-KAS), in collaboration with the Consortium of South Asian Think Tanks (COSATT) from Nepal and the Institute of National Security Studies (INSS) in Sri Lanka, was successfully held from May 15th to 17th, 2024, at the historic Galle Face Hotel in Colombo.

This three-day event brought together a diverse group of participants, including young professionals, academics, and experts from various South Asian countries. The Summer School aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of climate change-related challenges facing small countries in the region, with a focus on renewable energy promotion and green finance.

Day 1: Engaging Sessions and Keynote Addresses

The first day began with a warm welcome address by Dr. Frederick Kliem, Director of RECAP-KAS, followed by a keynote address from General GDH Kamal Gunaratne, (Retd) WWV RWP RSP USP ndc psc MPhil, Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Sri Lanka. The opening session concluded with a vote of thanks by Colonel Nalin Herath RSP, Director General and Director Research of INSS.

The day's sessions covered a wide range of topics:

Ms. Karma Dorji presented on the "Effect of Climate Change in Eastern Himalayas," focusing on water and livelihood impacts in Bhutan.

Mr. Ujjwal Upadhyay discussed "Climate Change in Nepal," highlighting the 2nd NDC Target and key takeaways from COP-28.

Mr. Shafqat Munir shared insights on "Climate Change: A Perspective of Bangladesh."

Rasheeda Didi from the Maldives discussed adaptation measures specific to her country.

The day concluded with group work and presentations, guided by Mr. Ujjwal Upadhyay, fostering collaborative learning and engagement among participants.

Day 2: Field Visits and Academic Interactions

Participants visited the Department of Meteorology in Colombo and then transferred to the University of Moratuwa. At the university, Prof. Lalith Rajapakse delivered an address on the "Impact of Climate Change and Water Crisis in Sri Lanka," followed by an interactive session with faculty and students.

A roundtable discussion on current European affairs was led by Dr. Peter Hefele, Policy Director at the Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies, moderated by Dr. Frederick Kliem.

Day 3: Panel Discussions and Cultural Exchange

The final day featured a panel discussion on "Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Measures in Europe and South Asia," chaired by David Merkle of KAS. Perspectives were shared by:

Dr. Peter Hefele on the European approach.

Ambassador Manjeev Singh Puri on the Indian perspective.

Prof. Nausheen Wasi on the Pakistani perspective.

Prof. Maneesha S. Wanasinghe-Pasqual on the Sri Lankan perspective.

A special address on "Indian Climate Diplomacy" by Ambassador Manjeev Singh Puri was followed by a Q&A session, moderated by Timm Anton.

The event concluded with group work presentations, a certificate ceremony, and a cultural exchange night, culminating in a farewell dinner.

Participants left with a deeper understanding of climate change issues, enriched by the diverse perspectives and collaborative discussions. The International Summer School on Climate Change and Disaster Management in South Asia provided a platform for meaningful dialogue and laid the groundwork for future cooperation in addressing climate change challenges in the region.