Event

20 October 2023

Women-Led Expedition Empowers and Educates in Central Asia’s High Mountains

In the recent ‘Adventure of Science: Women and Glaciers in Central Asia’ expedition, the focus on climate change adaptation empowered a new generation of young explorers, scientists, and leaders.

Hands-On Learning

Young participants explored the Kyrgyz Ala Archa National Park, learning about natural hazards like Glacier Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) directly from expert Laura Niggli.

Practical Knowledge

On-site evidence and hazard assessment skills were imparted, crucial for safe living in GLOF-prone regions.

Project Background

The program is part of ‘Cryospheric Observation and Modeling for Improved Adaptation in Central Asia (CROMO-ADAPT),’ supported by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and executed by the University of Fribourg, in collaboration with UNESCO, Girls on Ice Switzerland, and Central-Asian Institute for Applied Geosciences ********(CAIAG).

Empowering Young Women

The program fosters critical thinking and curiosity, especially among young women, promoting gender diversity in science and leadership.

Impact

• Youth and Young Professionals: Practical experience enhances their capacity in climate adaptation, disaster risk management, and environmental sciences.
• Local Communities: Understanding landscape features is vital for safer living in hazard-prone areas.
• Young Civil Servants: Insights and expertise gained contribute to their effectiveness in climate-related work.
• Empowering Women: Promoting gender inclusivity in science and leadership is a step towards a more diverse and resilient future.
• International Collaboration: Cooperation among organizations and agencies underscores the collective effort to address climate challenges.

This expedition marks a milestone in climate adaptation capacity building, inspiring a new generation to confront the pressing issues of our time.