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Our GADO team was pleased to participate in LTTA in Belgium in October 2024! Centred around the principles of sustainable development and goals, this programme invited international teachers, students and pupils from various countries to experience Belgium’s heritage while engaging in hands-on initiatives that address pressing environmental challenges. The curriculum integrated local environmental issues with challenges focusing on food waste, renewable energy, waste reduction, and biodiversity. Students from Zottegem collaborated with their international peers to develop practical solutions for sustainability-related issues, increasing a spirit of cooperation and cultural exchanges.
Through workshops on natural resources and crafts, presentations, city game on fast/slow fashion, SDGs quizzes, field trips to Brussels and Ghent, and community projects, students were working on sustainable practices, such as clean waters, urban gardening, eco-friendly transportation, and green initiatives. They gained valuable insights into Belgium’s policies and sustainable living, as well as the European Union’s broader goals for environmental sustainability. During the training, we all visited the European Parliament, Belexpo, and Parlementarium in Brussels, which was a great opportunity to learn about the country’s commitment to sustainability, the history of European democracy and the role of activism in daily life. Students also prepared their presentations on the national priorities in education for sustainability: SDGs from an economical perspective and took part in delicious cooking workshops. The other day, we went together to Ghent, where we were invited for a river clean-up using canoes. This activity was not only a great physical exercise in nature but also a meaningful step for better water quality and protection of local waters. In addition to academic enrichment, the exchange encouraged personal growth and intercultural understanding of pupils, who were staying with their host families. Students developed essential skills such as teamwork, critical thinking, and adaptability while forming lasting friendships across borders.
We would like to thank our Belgium hosts for a welcoming atmosphere and effective and interesting training! It provided a unique platform for both teachers and pupils to actively participate in the global conversation on sustainable development, equipping them with the knowledge and passion to effect positive change both locally and internationally.