Imvelo
Virtual Reality experience to educate and engage youth on a journey of sustainability and climate action
Context
Climate change presents one of the most significant challenges facing our world today, requiring innovative approaches to education and awareness, particularly among young people who will inherit these challenges. Traditional educational methods often struggle to convey the urgency and complexity of environmental issues in ways that resonate with today’s youth. Additionally, there’s a growing recognition of the importance of SDG 13 (Climate Action) and the need to empower young people with both knowledge and practical tools to address climate challenges. With World Environment Day highlighting sustainable living and harmony with nature, there was a timely opportunity to introduce new learning approaches that could inspire meaningful action.
Approach
This initiative brought together multiple stakeholders in a collaborative effort: UNDP, UNICEF South Africa, Sci-Bono Discovery Centre, and Sisanda Tech. The team developed a comprehensive Virtual Reality (VR) experience housed at the Sci-Bono Discovery Center in Johannesburg, designed specifically to engage children and young people through interactive technology.
The approach centered on gamification principles to make climate learning both educational and entertaining. The VR experience was structured as an action-filled adventure incorporating multiple learning modalities: multimedia content for visual and auditory engagement, interactive quizzes to reinforce knowledge, and direct interaction mechanics that allow users to actively participate rather than passively consume information.
The content was strategically designed to cover key environmental themes including forest conservation, water safety, the impact of fossil fuels, and sustainable food systems—providing a holistic view of climate challenges while maintaining an engaging, immersive experience.
Output
The Imvelo VR Experience successfully created an immersive educational environment where young learners can explore environmental concepts through active participation. Launched ahead of World Environment Day on June 5th, the experience provides a hands-on journey through various climate scenarios that require user intervention and decision-making.
As noted by Dr. Ayodele Odusola, UNDP Resident Representative to South Africa, the project “harnesses the power of technology, innovation and youth engagement to contribute to the achievement of SDG 13 on climate action.” The experience not only raises awareness about the driving causes of climate change but equips young people with concrete, actionable steps they can take to mitigate its impact.
The installation at Sci-Bono Discovery Center serves as an innovative learning platform that responds to UNICEF South Africa Representative Christine Muhigana’s observation that “children and young people are taking the lead in advocating for and working towards a greener and more sustainable future,” by providing them with the tools and knowledge to continue this important work.
Credit
Developer
Sisanda Tech
Client
UNDP
Scibono
Technology
Unity
XR Interaction Toolkit