Educator from DPS Greater Noida wins top honours at UN Climate Change Conference

26th Nov, Greater Noida: Naqeeb Mehdi, Head of the Biology Department at DPS, Greater Noida, brought international acclaim to India by winning the prestigious Oxford Saïd Burjeel Holdings Climate Change Challenge at COP 29, held on November 18 in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Naqeeb’s innovative lesson plan, inspired by the Surajpur wetlands in Greater Noida, highlighted the vital role of wetlands in carbon sequestration, groundwater recharge, and flood control. His project stood out among 1,000 entries from educators and students across 58 countries, unanimously chosen as the top submission among the five finalists.

Addressing a captivated audience, Naqeeb emphasized India’s ecological diversity and its potential to lead global sustainability efforts. His presentation not only celebrated the Surajpur wetlands but also underlined India’s capacity to address climate challenges innovatively.

As the winner, Naqeeb has earned a coveted opportunity to attend the Special Executive Program at Oxford University’s Saïd Business School in May 2025.

The Climate Change Challenge was conceived by Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, an Indian entrepreneur, in collaboration with Oxford Saïd Business School, to encourage innovative solutions for combating climate change.