Thank you so much for supporting Day for Change 2011.
The money raised was used to support children in Guyana, South America, respond to the effects of climate change.
Over 2000 schools took part in Day for Change 2011, and raised a huge amount of money that is already making a difference to our work in Guyana.
How the money has been used
UNICEF have been working with the Education Minister to embed climate change into the national curriculum (at nursery, primary and secondary levels). This means that all children who go to school can learn about what causes climate change, what impact it could have on their lives, and how they can help protect themselves and adapt. As we learned last year, children can have a real impact in educating their communities about climate change, and helping them respond to it. This wide reaching education programme will help enormously.
We have been working with the government to help them focus specifically on protecting children if and when an emergency happens. In Guyana, the changes in rainfall, and the fact that over 80% of the population lives on the low-lying coast makes them particularly vulnerable to climate change related disasters. This work will mean that if an emergency happens, the government and local officials are briefed on how best to protect and care for children.
The UNICEF office also worked with the government to hold a child friendly exhibition on the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction. This was an effective way to talk to children and adults about what there is in place in Guyana for Disaster Risk Reduction, and educating and preparing children and youth to reduce their vulnerability in the event of a disaster.
In the New Year, the UNICEF team in Guyana will be continuing their vital work, continuing to educate about the impact of climate change, help prepare the country to better response to emergencies, and to ensure that all children have access to the health care and education that they have a right to.
Thank you again for your support. The money you raised really will make a huge difference to children.
