OASIS Schoolyards Initiative Transforms Educational Spaces into Urban Oases

The OASIS Schoolyards initiative is a collaborative effort aimed at re-envisioning school environments as urban oases, with a focus on sustainability, inclusivity, and climate awareness. Launched in Paris in 2018 to tackle challenges posed by climate risks, such as extreme heat, the program has transformed nearly 200 schoolyards in the city into multifunctional spaces that enhance children's learning and play while fostering a culture of environmental consciousness.

In 2023, recognizing the similar climate challenges faced by Asian cities, the program was adapted for implementation in Semarang, Indonesia, and Quezon City in the Philippines. Semarang has particularly faced severe flooding, leading to the closure of numerous schools, which has adversely affected students’ health and education. The OASIS Schoolyards initiative offers a pathway for schools to contribute to increasing urban green space and to build resilience against climate changes, as stated by Budi Prakosa from the Semarang City Regional Development Planning Agency.

The initiative expands the learning experience beyond traditional classrooms, transforming schoolyards into active environments for environmental learning and community engagement. From September 2024 to June 2025, five pilot schools will integrate climate change education, engage in student-led environmental actions, and redesign their outdoor spaces. Examples of initiatives include waste sorting and composting programs at SD Marsudirini Gedangan, visits to local waste disposal sites at MI Darul Ulum Ngaliyan, and the development of clean water filtration systems at SD 01 Gebangsari.

Beyond facilitating student engagement with environmental issues, the program also enhances teacher training, with teachers reporting a boost in their ability to address climate topics in an interactive manner. The transformation of schoolyards into "living classrooms" promotes a culture of sustainability within the school community, while also assisting schools in their quest for national recognition for environmental stewardship.

Ultimately, the OASIS Schoolyards initiative illustrates how local actions, when taken collectively, can contribute significantly to resilience against climate change. By intertwining education, community involvement, and innovative design, the program lays the groundwork for creating more sustainable urban environments, starting with the vital spaces of our schools.