A three-day residential training programme for 14 children drawn from Across Sri Lanka aimed to equip children with the right knowledge and guide them on practical skills to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Between 23rd – 25th February 2024, the children convened at Arigatou International’s SDGs Academy for Children, Model Classroom in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The children covered general understanding of the SDGs including its history and went ahead to learn about the 5 major groups of the goals – People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, and Partnerships.
The learning and training sessions were varied ranging from group discussions, plenary sessions, creative illustrative sessions such as comic books, drawing and digital sessions including movie screening. The mix was necessary to enable the children to bond, gain a deeper understanding of the SDGs as well as demonstrate actions towards achieving the goals. Specifically, the children screened a documentary on SDG 14, shedding light on critical issues of life below water, as enshrined in goal 14.
After 3 days of learning, building skills and playing, the 14 diverse changemakers collaborated to craft impactful presentations proposing how they would contribute to achievement of the SDGs, reflecting their unique perspectives and insights. Action plans were further developed on how to translate SDGs into practical initiatives within their communities. The training and learning programme proved to be an enriching and empowering experience for the children. By guiding them with practical skills and knowledge, the programme succeeded in assisting a generation of young changemakers committed to driving sustainable development and positive change in their communities
