Show Notes

On this episode of Sparking Change, Dil interviews Su-Ming Khoo, and afterwards we hear speeches from the Irish Developmental Education Association (IDEA) Conference. In Dil’s interview with Su, they discuss what developmental education is, how Su thinks of education as the ‘motor for driving change’, and how Irish society has been progressing of late, as well as the encouraging signs of young people in Ireland having a keen interest in politics. Next, we hear Su-Ming and others speak at the IDEA conference itself. This year, the theme is Transformative Education for Global Citizenship – SDG (Sustainable Development Goal) 4.7 in Ireland. SDG 4.7 requires that by 2030, all learners acquire knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including among others, education for sustainable development and sustainable lifestyles, human rights, gender equality, promotion of a culture of peace and non-violence, global citizenship, and appreciation of cultural diversity and of culture’s contribution to sustainable development. (23:25–51:30) Su-Ming Khoo Su-Ming gives the introductory speech, in which she addresses the bigger picture around Transformative Education for Global Citizenship, and discusses the idea of working together towards SDG 4.7 across all sectors. (54:02–01:01:45) Rilli Lappalainen Rilli Lappalainen is the Secretary General of Kehys, the Finnish NGDO platform to the EU. Rilli talks about what SDG 4.7 is, how it came about, as well as what is being done around SDG 4.7 in countries. (01:02:03–01:11:10) Frank Geary Frank Geary is the director of IDEA and Member of Coalition 2030. Frank discusses what the landscape is like for the SDGs in Ireland and SDG 4.7 in particular, as well as the level of awareness for SDG 4.7. (01:11:30–01:23:51) Dermot O’Brien Dermot is a youth work freelance trainer, facilitator and consultant. Dermot tells some of anecdotes about the experience of sharing spaces and working with young people, particularly in relation to SDG 4.7.