In a classroom in the Dominican Republic, Yndira Rodriguez is listening closely to the teacher’s words and taking down notes. The 39-year-old has switched roles. Normally, Rodriguez, a teacher, is used to standing in front of a class, not sitting in the first row.

But Yndira has changed sides for a good cause- in the last few months, she has clocked 192 hours - including weekends and most of her free time - learning everything she could about climate change, its consequences and how her region and country can better adapt to changing weather. Today, Yndira is to complete her final class and receive a so-called "climate diploma."

“You can wish all you want. But if you really want to get something done, you have to give that extra effort,” she says.

The underlying problem? Eager students wait in classrooms to learn but very few teachers are willing to teach.