The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geo-Hazards Department (VMGD) has launched two innovative climate trails at Fetukai and Naluken Schools in Middle Bush, Tanna, blending traditional knowledge with modern climate science and digital tools to strengthen community resilience.
The launch, held earlier this month as part of the Public Service Commission Open Day on Tanna, represents a strong collaboration between the two schools, VMGD, and local community leaders.
“These trails are vital data points for us at VMGD,” said John Ruben, VMGD’s Principal Scientific and Research and Development Officer. “By empowering students to collect this information, we are building a more robust and localized understanding of climate change impacts that complements our scientific data, strengthening national climate resilience.”
The program began with a community workshop where elders shared traditional ecological knowledge passed down through generations. This session highlighted how close observation of land, skies, and plants continues to provide important insights into weather patterns and climate variability.
Following this, VMGD introduced students and teachers to the ClimateWatch app, a digital citizen science tool that allows users to record changes in key plant and animal species sensitive to climate. Students received hands-on training to track “indicator species,” learning how shifts in flowering, fruiting, and other patterns reflect broader environmental changes.
“The enthusiasm from the students and community leaders was incredible,” said William Worworkon, VMGD’s Principal Scientific Officer for Training and Community Outreach. “This project is about empowering people with the tools to monitor, capture, and share the changes they see in their own backyard. By combining kastom knowledge with new technology, we are helping to cultivate the next generation of climate leaders right here on Tanna.”
During the launch, students explored their school grounds to identify and document indicator plants, now forming the basis of each school’s climate trail. By observing and recording these plants regularly with the ClimateWatch app, students will directly monitor the impacts of climate change over time.
These trails are envisioned as living classrooms — making climate science practical and relatable, while building awareness and resilience at the community level. The data students collect will also feed into VMGD’s national monitoring efforts, strengthening Vanuatu’s ability to predict and adapt to climate impacts.
This initiative is part of the Vanuatu Klaemet Infomesen blong Redy, Adapt mo Protekt (VanKIRAP) project, funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF), which aims to empower local communities with both traditional wisdom and modern tools to better face a changing climate.
The VMGD reaffirmed its commitment to expand such initiatives across Vanuatu, recognizing that community-based learning and youth engagement are vital for building a climate-resilient future for all.
