The project's objective was to increase awareness among students (aged 14-18) of global challenges as defined by the UN’s SDGs. Specifically, the project sought to: Train students to create innovative solutions: The project aimed to equip students with the skills to collaboratively create innovative solutions, practices, and methods for tackling the challenges targeted by the 17 SDGs. Develop intercultural competencies: We focused on training students and teachers in intercultural competencies, fostering a better understanding and appreciation of different cultures. Enhance English language skills: Improve students’ competencies in speaking and writing English. Promote shared responsibility: We sought to instil in students a deep understanding that the challenges reflected in the 17 SDGs are shared globally and that we all have a collective responsibility to address them. Empower teachers for cross-border cooperation: The project aimed to develop teachers' abilities to engage their students in trans-border educational collaboration. Draw inspiration from international practices: We intended to draw inspiration from how different countries approach the SDGs, using these diverse perspectives to enrich the learning experience.
The project was initiated in response to the need to educate the next generation about the world’s biggest challenges, as defined by the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Globally, we face significant issues such as hunger, gender inequality and biodiversity loss. >40% of the world’s population is aged between 10 and 24, this generation must understand the challenges to contribute to their solutions. Integrating the SDGs into education can enhance academic skills and mental and moral development. Needs addressed: Increased awareness of global challenges: Ensure that students (aged 14-18) understand the global challenges the SDGs address. The project has developed tools and methods that enable students and teachers to collaborate transnationally. Development of cross-cultural collaboration: To ensure a more nuanced understanding of global challenges, it was important to create opportunities for cross-cultural collaboration. The project has promoted this collaboration through students' participation in an international context. Strengthening the role of schools in the community: By integrating the SDGs into education, the project also aimed to strengthen the schools' ethos and relationship with the local community.