Arigatou International was invited by UNESCO to contribute to the UNESCO Week for Peace and Sustainable Development that took place in Ottawa, Canada, from 6 to 10 March. The event was a unique platform for discussion on two key programs of the Education Sector, namely Education for Sustainable Development and Global Citizenship Education, and their practical contribution in achieving Target 4.7 of the Sustainable Development Goal 4 on Education. The Week focused on the issue of teachers and teacher training, and highlighted best practices.
Arigatou International implements the Learning to Live Together Programme (LTLT) as a contribution to the UNESCO Global Citizenship Education approach, seeking to nurture a sense of belonging to a common humanity as well as genuine respect for all. It also contributes to Education for Sustainable Development by building awareness of children’s inter-connectedness, strengthening their values and ultimately encouraging them to work together to transform the world in an ethical and sustainable way. The Ethics Education framework of Arigatou International also supports teachers teaching processes and enhances their facilitation skills, their ability to develop participatory and collaborative learning processes, create safe learning environments and the internalization of ethical values.
Arigatou International was therefore, invited by UNESCO to present the LTLT programme at the Week for Peace. Ms Eleonora Mura, Program Officer from Arigatou International Geneva attended the event and conducted a successful workshop showcasing practical activities that can be replicated in formal and non-formal education settings. She explained in detail the Ethics Education Framework to over 30 participants. Arigatou International also had an exhibition booth at the event providing participants with information about the work of the Arigatou International Ethics Education initiative and the Learning to Live Together programme.
The Week for Peace and Sustainable Development provided space to share and discuss trends and innovation in pedagogical approaches and practices, as well as exchange good practices in advancing Education for Sustainable Development and Global Citizenship Education in the global context. The Week was designed to maximize opportunities for interaction, networking and free debates and discussions among participants.
Photo credit: © Canadian Commission for UNESCO