The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) continued its activities at the 31st United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, Türkiye. From 12 to 14 November 2026, ICESCO held four separate sessions on strengthening food security, green education and biodiversity, and engaging Indigenous youth in climate action. It also participated in a high-level session to raise awareness of the importance of climate education.

Dr. Ahmed Albanyan, Head of ICESCO’s Education Sector and Supervisor of the Translation and Publishing Center, represented the Organization in the high-level international dialogue, “Coalition for Climate Action Education for All by 2035,” held by Cambridge University Press & Assessment and the Cambridge Zero initiative. In his remarks, Dr. Albanyan stressed the need to translate international commitments on climate awareness into tangible impact in classrooms.

Dr. Muhammad Sharif, Advisor in the Science and Environment Sector, moderated a session titled “Food as a Top Priority for the 3 COPs,” organized by ICESCO in partnership with the Global Food Security Leadership Initiative at the Uganda Pavilion. Participants highlighted ways to better respond to the needs of farmers, young entrepreneurs and communities.

Dr. Issam Karimi, Head of the Innovation and Creativity Division of the Science and Environment Sector, presented ICESCO’s efforts to advance sustainable universities and harness science diplomacy for climate action during a session titled “From Green Schools to Green Careers: A Lifelong Learning Path to Skills and Leadership.” The session was held in cooperation with the Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection, the Hassan II International Center for Environmental Training, the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM), the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Zamin Foundation, the Turkish Foundation for Environmental Education (TÜRÇEV), the Young Negotiators Academy and the Center for Environmental Education (CEE).

At the Morocco Pavilion, Dr. Wissam Chehade, Expert in the Science and Environment Sector, moderated a session titled “Practical Pathways for Biodiversity, Land Restoration and Climate Action: Financing and Scaling Nature-Based Solutions for Climate Resilience.” Held in partnership with the UAE-based Azraq organization, Chapter Zero Kazakhstan and Atyrau University of Oil and Gas in Kazakhstan, the session underscored the importance of developing partnerships to address environmental challenges.

During a session titled “Youth Climate Leaders Forum: Indigenous Youth Meet Academia – Mountain Knowledge for Climate Action,” held in partnership with the Commission on Science and Technology for Sustainable Development in the South (COMSATS), Dr. Adel Smeda, Expert in the Science and Environment Sector, highlighted the importance of connecting community knowledge with scientific research and youth leadership to develop practical solutions and strengthen the resilience of mountain communities.

For his part, Dr. Fahman Fathurahman, Expert in the Sector, stressed during the session the importance of raising awareness of environmental issues, community participation and cooperation in advancing climate action.