Young Earth Scientists Unite at International Geosciences Youth Movement (IGYM) 2025 to Reimagine Climate Education

Bengaluru, August 2, 2025: In a landmark effort to reshape climate education and inspire the next generation of Earth Science leaders, Prayoga Institute of Education Research hosted the inaugural International Geosciences Youth Movement (IGYM) Workshop at its research campus on Kanakapura Road, Bengaluru.

Organised under the aegis of the International Geoscience Education Organization (IGEO), with support from the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India and in partnership with RISE Philanthropy, IGYM 2025 brought together 30 outstanding high school students, 15 international finalists from the International Earth Science Olympiad (IESO) representing countries such as Israel, France, Spain, Sri Lanka, and the USA, and 15 Indian students united by a shared passion for geoscience.

The week-long residential program tackled two major challenges: reimagining how geoscience is taught in schools and addressing real-world concerns like climate change, water scarcity, and natural disasters. Through a mix of field visits, lab experiments, group projects, and interactive discussions, participants explored key Earth System processes and developed youth-led action plans aimed at promoting Earth Systems Education (ESE) globally.

Fieldwork near Kanakapura provided contextual grounding in local geology, while collaborative activities and cultural exchange enriched the experience. Leadership sessions helped students shape their vision for integrating ESE in their schools and communities. 

This spirit of discovery and connection was echoed by the participants themselves. One of the participants, Rigveda Guptha, a Grade 12 student from Bengaluru, said, “Geoscience is a fascinating field that relies heavily on practical and experiential learning. This was showcased excellently during the IGYM 2025 workshop. The field trips helped us truly experience geoscience in action, and the fun activities like dancing and singing helped refresh our minds. The Prayoga campus, surrounded by nature, made learning even better. Overall, this camp was an amazing experience, I would highly recommend it to all students interested in geoscience.” 

Eva Smidtas, an 18 year old participant from Paris, added, “I wanted to share my passion and learn new ways to teach earth sciences. This is my first time in India, and it feels like home. There’s a warm, family-like atmosphere in how we study, interact, and support one another. The workshops and discussions have been very interactive, and the learning environment is both inspiring and welcoming. I’m truly enjoying my time here, meeting new people, sharing knowledge, and discovering new perspectives.”

As part of its ongoing commitment to Earth Science research, Prayoga signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with RISE Philanthropy during the workshop. The collaboration aims to deepen research efforts and broaden access to hands-on geoscience education for students from underserved backgrounds.

The workshop was mentored by global leaders in Earth Science education, including Prof. Nir Orion of the Weizmann Institute of Science, Israel, and Chair, IGEO, who played an active role throughout the week.

Reflecting on the experience, Dr. K.S. Nagahushana, Director of Research at Prayoga, said, “At a time when the planet faces complex environmental challenges, equipping young minds with scientific curiosity and global perspectives is critical. IGYM 2025 reflects everything we stand for, experiential learning, youth leadership, and a shared commitment to a sustainable future.”

With IGYM 2025, Prayoga has laid the foundation for a global network of youth geoscience ambassadors. By combining scientific exploration with collaborative action, the workshop has not only advanced Earth science education but also deepened students’ sense of environmental stewardship.