As climate change accelerates, governments and communities worldwide face increasing challenges in adapting to its impacts. From extreme weather events to shifting agricultural patterns and heightened risks to public health, the need for effective climate adaptation strategies has never been more urgent. Recognizing this, the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), in partnership with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), has launched a new online course: Strengthening Climate Adaptation and Resilience.
This self-paced, three-module e-course takes between 4 and 5 hours to complete and is designed to equip policymakers, practitioners, and other stakeholders with the knowledge and tools needed to integrate climate adaptation into planning, budgeting, and financing.
This e-course was developed in the framework of the Strengthening Climate Adaptation and Resilience (SAR) Project, which aims to improve climate adaptation measures in Pakistan, with a particular focus on vulnerable populations, including women. While the course features case studies from Pakistan and other Asia-Pacific countries, its core content is globally relevant, providing participants with a solid foundation in climate risk assessment, policy integration, and innovative financial solutions for adaptation. Through interactive lessons, real-world case studies, and self-assessment quizzes, learners will gain practical insights into implementing effective climate resilience strategies at various governance levels.
Designed to accommodate the busy schedules of professionals, this flexible e-course allows participants to learn at their own pace while deepening their expertise in climate adaptation. Get more information about the e-course below.
Who should take this course?
While the course was initially developed to support the Pakistan government in enhancing climate adaptation and resilience, it will be of particular interest to:
- Civil servants in planning and development departments of various line ministries such as environment, agriculture, industry, finance, development, etc., at the local and national levels, and
- Stakeholders from non-governmental organizations and community groups focused on climate change adaptation and resilience.
What will you learn?
The core objectives of the e-course include enhancing knowledge on integrating climate change into planning, budgeting, and decision-making in an inclusive manner, while also strengthening individual capacities within governments to implement nationally appropriate adaptation strategies. Additionally, the course provides insights into innovative financial instruments for funding climate adaptation.
Designed and developed through a gender-sensitive lens, the course takes an integrated approach, featuring case studies that highlight how climate change impacts different groups in distinct ways. This reinforces the importance of considering all community members when addressing climate adaptation challenges.
Will you get a certificate?
The successful completion of the course rewards the learner with a certificate. To complete the course, the learner must complete all three modules and pass each associated quiz with a minimum grade of 70% from no more than three attempts.