Our education and capacity-building initiatives focus on strengthening STEM education, climate change understanding, and development practice, particularly in regions vulnerable to climate risks. These efforts aim to build local expertise, improve access to scientific tools and data, and enhance decision-making capacity for sustainable development and risk management.   Key Projects Undertaken

• STEM Education and Capacity Building for Resource and Risk Management in Remote Outposts, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives (2018–2019)
• Post-Graduate Course on Climate Change in South Asia (2013–2014)
• Masters in Development Practice (MDP), University of Peradeniya (2009–2014)

 

1. STEM Education and Capacity Building in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, Southern Maldives (2018-2019)

This project was implemented in partnership with the Small Island Research Centre/Group (SIRC/G) and the Foundation for Environment, Climate and Technology (FECT) in Fares-Maathoda and Thinadhoo islands of the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, located near the equatorial passage. Objectives:

• Strengthen STEM education in middle and high schools in remote island communities
• Provide student access to scientific instrumentation, ICT systems, and real-world data
• Integrate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics into a hands-on, applied learning framework

Key Activities:

• Development and preparation of instruments and technical documentation
• Trialing of procedures for classroom and field use
• Coordination with the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll Education Centre and Huvadhoo School
• Planning and implementation discussions with principals and teachers

Funding: Sponsored by the Partnerships for Enhanced Engagement in Research (PEER) program of the US National Academy of Sciences, with support from USAID.
(Initiated following guidance from PEER Program Manager Dr. Dalal Najib.)  

2. Post-Graduate Course on Climate Change in South Asia (2013-2014)

The Post-Graduate course on Climate Change in South Asia was developed jointly by FECT and the University of Peradeniya and delivered during the third semester of the MDP program. Course details:

• Taught by Dr. Lareef Zubair, Principal Scientist at FECT
• Provided foundational knowledge of the global climate system
• Examined seasonal and regional climate variability in South Asia

Key thematic areas:

• Climate impacts and vulnerability
• Adaptation and mitigation strategies
• Resource management and policy responses
• Practical, hands-on analytical exercises for students from diverse academic backgrounds

3. Masters in Development Practice (MDP), University of Peradeniya (2009-2014)

The Masters in Development Practice (MDP) program was launched by the University of Peradeniya in collaboration with:

• Foundation for Environment, Climate and Technology (FECT)
• Columbia University
• Open University
• Other partner institutions

Program focus areas:

• Coastal regions and tropical islands
• Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)
• Poverty measurement and analysis
• Climate change in South Asia
• Technology for sustainable development

FECT's Role:

• Curriculum development
• Teaching and academic support
• Research supervision
• Field placements
• Capacity development and applied research in Sri Lanka and the Maldives

Funding: Supported by the MacArthur Foundation (USA) as part of a global network of 22 universities offering the MDP program.