In a time of rapid change and increasing complexity, creating space for thoughtful dialogue has never been more important. Young people continue to show that curiosity, empathy, and open conversation can help bridge differences and deepen understanding.

Welcome to our Q1 2026 newsletter!

This quarter, we have seen our global community continue to grow and engage, from expanding our partnerships in Rwanda and Indonesia, to connecting thousands of students through SDG Dialogue Series and MyFreedomDay Dialogues, and exploring the role of AI in education with both students and educators. Across programmes, events, and new resources, dialogue remains at the heart of how young people make sense of the world around them.

As always, we are inspired by the voices, questions, and perspectives shared by our students and educators. Thank you for being part of this global community and for supporting meaningful dialogue in your classrooms and beyond.

Warm regards,

The Generation Global Team

Deepening dialogue education in Rwanda

Our partnership with the Ministry of Education in Rwanda continues to grow. We signed an MOU with the Ministry to expand the breadth and depth of our work and help more Rwandan youth become global minded. In addition to the reach of 7200 students and 150 teachers, we will continue to increase our footprint in Rwandan education system.

Lorenzo Raffio, our Digital and MEAL Lead, visited Kigali to support the monitoring and evaluation of the programme with the schools. Between 2-6 March, he engaged with more than 300 young people and conducted focus group discussions with students and teachers to gather insights into programme implementation, strengths, key challenges, and progress.

One year with IB, a growing dialogue community

This quarter marks two meaningful milestones for Generation Global.

Our Ultimate Dialogue Adventure (UDA) platform now has over 103,000 registered students and more than 10,000 teachers worldwide, a growing community of young people and educators engaging in dialogue to explore global topics and learn from diverse perspectives.

We also mark one year since Generation Global became part of the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). As part of IB’s youth initiative, the programme continues to expand its reach and help young people become thoughtful, globally minded learners through dialogue.

Youth voices in SDG Dialogue Series & #MyFreedomDay Dialogues

The SDG Dialogue Series returned for its fifth edition in January and February, bringing together 1,800+ students from 36 countries across 76 video conferences focused on Sustainable Development Goals. 92% of participants reported that the dialogues increased their knowledge of SDG topics.

One student from Lithuania shared:
“The conference was a thought-provoking dialogue that allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and talk about active world issues. I shared my own experiences about quality education and listened to perspectives from around the world - from the US to Armenia and much more.”

In parallel, MyFreedomDay Dialogues, welcomed 320 students from 23 countries to explore human trafficking in a safe and inclusive space. Conversations covered how factors like culture, nationality, gender, and social background shape understanding of trafficking, the risks faced by children and vulnerable communities, and the role of transparency and accountability in protecting victims.

👉 Visit our events page to check out the upcoming events.

Scaling across Indonesian schools

Our team member, Lenny Ceng, sparked new connections across Jakarta and Surabaya, introducing dialogue-based learning to schools including Binus Simprug, Regina Pacis, and Sekolah Ciputra. Through interactive student workshops and strategic educator meetings, we are scaling our impact rapidly, evidenced by a 500% surge in educator registrations in last two quarter. The momentum in Indonesia is just beginning!

👉 For any partnership enquiries or if your school would like an offline/online dialogue workshop, send us a message.

Team’s update

After seven years of dedicated leadership, we bid farewell to Lucy Hayter, who guided Generation Global through many milestones with vision and commitment. We warmly welcome Eva Grajeda Chávez as our new Head. Eva brings over 20 years of experience leading global education initiatives, having trained thousands of teachers and reached tens of thousands of students across Latin America, the UK, and the US.

We also celebrate Lili Qiu, promoted to Communication & Coordination Associate Manager. In her new role, Lili will lead communications and programme coordination, aiming to amplify youth voices, expand our reach, and build the programme credibility.

Student Voice in the Age of AI: Generation Global at IFE Conference 2026

Angélica Santana Fierro, our Education Specialist, participated as a panellist at the IFE Conference 2026 in Mexico. The session “The Irreplaceable: The Student’s Voice in the Age of AI” explored how educators can integrate AI into classrooms while preserving one of the most essential human dimensions of learning: authentic student voice. The discussion highlighted the importance of student expression and for them to remain the authors of their own ideas. 

UNESCO Global Education Coalition

Lorenzo Raffio, Digital and MEAL Lead, took part in the sixth annual meeting of UNESCO’s Global Education Coalition in Paris as part of our contribution to the Coalition and its Global Skills Academy mission. Held under the theme “Turning Vision into Value: Transforming Education Together,” the meeting brought together global education stakeholders to explore how investment, partnership and innovation can strengthen education systems and prepare learners for an AI-enabled future Our participation reflected the ongoing commitment to equipping young people with the skills, dialogue competencies and global perspectives needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world. 

Reimagining education through the lens of inclusion

Our Partnerships and Communications Lead, Robin Keshaw, was a speaker at the Indian Ministry of Education’s Inclusive Education Summit to share insights on the importance and implementation of inclusive learning. The session engaged government officials, practitioners, and civil society leaders, strengthening our commitment to equitable education.

Preparation meets impact: building global awareness in Jakarta schools

Leading up to the Global Awareness Conference 2026, we partnered with Beacon Academy Jakarta to host pre-conference dialogue workshops. By learning active listening and perspective-taking ahead of the event, students engaged with greater confidence and deeper insights. We appreciate the Beacon Academy team’s commitment to providing these learning experiences and look forward to future collaborations that empower young voices.

Earth Day Dialogues

What does Earth mean to younger generation? Earth Day is a powerful moment to reflect our relationship with the planet.  

From 20–24 April 2026, young learners can join the Earth Day Dialogues, live international video conferences where students reflect on their relationship with nature, share personal actions, and explore how communities can care for the Earth together. 

👉More information here! 

Educator Meet-Up: Dialogue and Learning in the Age of AI

Join our next Educator Meet-Up on 15 April 2026 (10:00 UTC / 14:30 UTC), where educators will explore how AI is shaping dialogue and learning. Connect with a global community of educators to share experiences, discuss opportunities and challenges, and exchange practical approaches to integrating AI in education.

👉 Register now to join the conversations.

Class Reports now available on the Teacher Portal

We’ve reintroduced Class Reports on the Teacher Portal, making it easier for educators to track students’ progress on the Ultimate Dialogue Adventure. Reports provide helpful insights for each student, including dialogue activity, XP earned, topics completed, and video conferences attended. 

👉 Learn how to download your Class Report in our Helpdesk article.

Retake Topics on Ultimate Dialogue Adventure

Students can now retake any completed topic on the Ultimate Dialogue Adventure, giving them the chance to revisit and strengthen their learning. Simply scroll to the Completed Topics section on the dashboard and select the option on the third card to get started. As topics are regularly updated, retaking them is a great way to refresh knowledge ahead of a video conference or special event.

AI VOICE Framework

Worried that using AI in your classroom might overshadow your students’ own thinking? Our AI VOICE framework guides educators on integrating AI thoughtfully into dialogic learning, helping students using AI thoughtfully to strengthen their authentic dialogue skills.

“Generation Global is one of the best platforms that helps us create a safe, social, and cultural environment for students in every country. Teachers are constantly supported by the Generation Global team. Personally, for me, Generation Global became a source of resilience and stability that allows me to stay connected to my purpose and that keeps my anxiety away.”

- Nataliia Loza, a teacher at Era College, Golden Horn Campus, Turkey

“Being part of Generation Global has positively affected my social skills, public speaking skills, and my dialogue skills. As well as it helps me increase my self-confidence.”

- Ketia, a student at IFAK Don Bosco, Rwanda

In moments when the world feels divided, young people show us that reflection, curiosity, and conversation can still bring us closer.

Welcome to our Q4 2025 newsletter!

This quarter has been rich with reflection, reinforcement, and global connection. From young people exploring the realities of climate change through COP30 Youth Dialogues, to the launch of a new topic on Artificial Intelligence, to deepening our partnerships in Rwanda and engaging with educators and stakeholders at the GESS conference in Dubai and IB Dunia Conference in Jakarta - the past months have shown how dialogue continues to help young people make sense of our fast-changing world.

Through it all, we continued meeting students and teachers where they are - through our school visits, info sessions and webinars. Every story we encountered affirms a simple truth: when young people practise dialogue, they help strengthen the world they shape.

Thank you for being with us through another impactful quarter. Wishing you Season’s Greetings this Festive time!

Best,

The Generation Global Team

COP30 Youth Dialogues: Young people envisioning a sustainable future

As global leaders gathered in Belém for COP30, young people across 27 countries created their own space for reflection through our virtual COP30 Youth Dialogues. Across 27 video conferences, more than 1,200 students exchanged personal stories on climate change, examined how environmental challenges shape their lives, and listened to diverse perspectives on justice, resilience, and responsibility.

A student from Mexico shared:

‘Hearing real stories from people my age made climate change feel way more real than just reading about it in class. The conversation definitely changed my perspective, it made me realize that even small actions matter and that young people actually have a voice in this issue. Overall, the dialogue made me more aware, more curious, and honestly more motivated to help in any way I can.’

👉 Visit our events page to check out the upcoming events.

Strengthening dialogue-based learning in Rwanda

In October, our Director, Lucy Hayter, together with Partnerships Lead, Robin Keshaw were in Rwanda to deepen collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the Rwanda Basic Education Board (REB). Along with Seth Buhigiro , Rwanda Coordinator, the team met Hon. Joseph Nsengimana, Minister of Education, who reaffirmed the programme’s alignment with national priorities, and Dr. Nelson Mbarushimana, Director General of REB, whose continued support and endorsement of programme expansion remain pivotal to its growth.

School visits across Kigali further illustrated the programme’s impact. Students spoke of growing confidence, stronger English fluency and technological understanding, and greater openness in listening to others. As one student shared, “At first, I wanted to speak more and be heard. Now I try to help my friends speak and learn to listen.” The team also visited IB schools and non-profits and explored promising synergies.

Bringing dialogue alive in schools

Our team visited 23 schools across the UAE, India, and Indonesia to engage deeply with dialogue-based learning this quarter. Student interactions and workshops with SABIS International and GEMS Millennium in Sharjah, City Montessori schools in Lucknow, Sunbeam schools in Varanasi and Podar group of schools in Gujarat along with other schools in New Delhi, Mohali and Jakarta created reflective spaces that strengthened students’ confidence and global awareness. Schools expressed enthusiasm to expand participation and integrate Generation Global more intentionally into their learning environments.

👉 For any partnership enquiries or if your school would like an offline/online dialogue workshop, send us a message.

New topic on Artificial Intelligence is live

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming how young people learn and communicate. Our new AI topic invites young people to explore what AI is, how it influences the way we share ideas, and why using it responsibly matters. Students can explore how AI can enhance meaningful conversations, uncover its benefits and risks, and learn how to use it thoughtfully to strengthen their dialogue skills.

👉 Students can explore this new module on the Ultimate Dialogue Adventure.

👉 Teachers can review the topic and assign it to learners via their Teacher Dashboard.

Educator Meet-up: A global space for shared learning

In November, 77 educators from 21 countries joined our Educator Meet-up to reflect, exchange ideas on the theme of Fostering Global Citizenship. The session explored how teachers and schools are advancing this work, through meaningful projects, cross‑school collaborations, and student‑led programmes, with dialogue at the heart. With engaging participation and high satisfaction, over 97% of attendees rated the session as good or excellent.

👉 Stay tuned to our Educator Events page for future events.

GESS Dubai: Dialogue on a Global Stage

At GESS Dubai, Robin Keshaw and Nikita Patel, South Asia coordinator, represented Generation Global and connected with educators and school leaders across the Middle East. Robin Keshaw’s session on preparing young people for the future of work drew meaningful engagement and opened new partnership conversations with leading schools in the region.

Growing Interest in Indonesia’s IB Community

At the IB Dunia Conference in Jakarta, Lenny Ceng, Southeast Asia Coordinator, led a session on Dialogue Across Cultures, sparking curiosity and enthusiasm among IB educators seeking to strengthen empathy and global citizenship in their classrooms. Several schools expressed readiness to explore deeper programme integration.

IB Global Conference 2025: Representing Generation Global in The Hague

Lorenzo Raffio, Digital and MEAL Lead, attended the IB Global Conference 2025 in The Hague representing Generation Global and engaging with a diverse community of IB educators and leaders. As the IB’s final global conference of the year, the event convened more than 1,600 participants around the theme “Our Humanity, Connected,” exploring how education can foster empathy, self-awareness and innovation amid rapid technological change.

SDG Dialogue series is returning in 2026

Building on the momentum of 200+ video conferences, 3,500+ youth participants, and 30+ countries represented since 2021, the SDG Dialogue Series returns in 2026 for its fifth edition, inviting youth aged 13–17 to explore the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through intercultural dialogue. Over four weeks, learners will join global peers in live video conferences, engage with interactive resources, and earn digital certificates for each SDG they complete. 

👉More details here!

Book your January–June 2026 Video Conferences

Ready to explore global issues and engage in intercultural experiences in the 2026? The latest video conference schedule is now available on the Ultimate Dialogue Adventure, featuring 19 topics. Whether you’re an educator planning ahead or a student setting new learning goal in new year, now’s the time to get involved.

👉 Educators: Log in to review the schedule and book sessions for your students.

👉 Students: Complete a module and book your next video conference experience.

Recorded Teacher Webinar: Deepening Dialogue - Helping Students Communicate for Greater Understanding

Want to help learners move beyond surface-level exchanges and engage in real conversations that foster mutual understanding?

This recorded webinar explores how dialogue, when used as an instructional strategy, can transform learning by promoting reflection, respect, and inquiry. You’ll learn strategies and activities to help students advance their dialogue practice and reach greater understanding.

Recorded Teacher Webinar: AI and Dialogue: Supporting learners in finding their authentic voice

Curious about how artificial intelligence can support meaningful dialogue in the classroom?

This recorded webinar examines the possibilities and limitations of using AI to help learners develop and practise dialogue skills. You’ll explore why some young people use AI for social engagement, consider its impact on personal expression, and learn practical approaches for integrating AI into dialogic education.

👉 Watch the recording here.

“When students are given a voice, they can change the world…For me, Generation Global is more than a platform, it’s a global classroom that build connection, character, and compassion”

- Dyah Khomsiyati, teacher from MTsN 1 Kota Malang, Indonesia**

“‘Personally Generation Global has made a better me.. Since I’ve started attending VC(Video Conference).. I’ve been more open to things.. and I don’t judge people when I meet them. Generation Global has been one of the best thing that could happen to me.’ “

- Pavitra, a student from Bal Bharati Public School, India

Every time a young person chooses dialogue, we see the promise of a better world taking shape.

Welcome to our Q3 2025 newsletter!

The past few months have been a time of powerful dialogue and inclusion at Generation Global. From marking the International Day of Peace with nearly 1,000 young people across 20 countries, to facilitating in-person student workshops in Punjab schools and training teachers in Rwanda, this quarter has shown the many ways dialogue can spark understanding and connection across borders.

We also welcomed new team members in India and Indonesia, prepared for COP30 Youth Dialogues scheduled in November, and explored how technology can support meaningful dialogue through upcoming educator webinars.

Thank you for being part of our ever-expanding global community. Read on to discover the voices, stories, and milestones from this quarter.

Best, 

The Generation Global Team

Peace Day Dialogues: Connecting youth across 20 countries

To celebrate the International Day of Peace on 21 September, we organised Peace Day Dialogues, a week of live video conferences where young people explored what peace and security mean to them, and how global peace shapes their daily lives. Between the 16 - 22 September, 964 young people from 20 countries joined 23 video conferences. Students explored diverse perspectives on peace and security, developing empathy, understanding, and collective action.

The richness of these dialogues was captured beautifully by a student from India, who shared: “This dialogue has taught me about how, while peace may have the same core concept, the idea of achieving peace is different for all. So, while peace involves satisfaction and contentment of all the people, the method of achieving peace has a different face for different people.”

👉 Interested in joining our future events? Explore our events page to see what’s coming up.

Expanding global citizenship education: school visits in India

This quarter, we expanded our in-person impact in Punjab, connecting with Decent Children Modern (DCM) schools in Ferozepur and Panchkula who were eager to embed dialogue into their learning environments.

Through workshops, more than 900 students were engaged in reflective conversations on issues such as women’s rights, climate change, and global citizenship. Students demonstrated an inclination to improve communication skills, enthusiasm for intercultural exchange, and a clear grasp of how dialogue differs from debate and discussion. Active educators were also felicitated for their role in nurturing dialogue-based classrooms.

Strengthening dialogue in Rwanda and beyond

This quarter, our partnership team brought in-person dialogue workshops to classrooms across India and the UAE, sparking meaningful conversations on global citizenship. In August 2025, three Kigali schools - Fawe Girls School, Lycee de Kigali, and Kanombe/EFOTEC - joined the Generation Global community to promote dialogue-based learning. Thirty teachers received training led by Lisa Petro, Education and Quality Lead and Seth Buhigiro, Rwanda Partnerships Coordinator. In the training, teachers were equipped with tools to integrate dialogue pedagogy into their curriculum, whilst also developing lesson plans to help students build meaningful dialogue skills for the future.

The teacher training sessions received positive feedback from participants. Teachers reported that their confidence in teaching dialogue rose significantly, with 97% of teachers feeling confident post-training.

Meanwhile, in Mexico, our team delivered a session for PrepaTec educators on Dialogic Pedagogy at the launch of the 2025–26 school year. Over 150 educators explored how Generation Global can be embedded in the PrepaTec curriculum and how dialogue can support human flourishing, academic development, and future readiness.

October - December video conference schedule

Ready to bring global issues and intercultural experiences to your classroom this semester? The latest video conference schedule is now available on the Ultimate Dialogue Adventure, featuring 18 topics. If you’re an educator planning ahead, now’s the time to get involved.

👉 Review the schedule and book sessions for your students

Welcoming new team members 👋

This quarter, we’re excited to welcome four new colleagues to the Generation Global team.

Based in Indonesia, Lenny Ceng joins as South-East Asia Partnerships Coordinator, to strengthen school networks and educator support. In India, Dashmeet Kaur joins as Marketing and Communications Manager, leading storytelling and outreach. Shivanshu Arya and Nikita Patel come on board as South Asia Partnerships Coordinators, supporting educators and schools across South Asia.

We’re thrilled to have them on board as we continue growing our global community and deepening our work with young people and educators worldwide.

Educator Meetup: Fostering Global Citizenship

On 4 November 2025 at 10 AM UTC and 2:30 PM UTC, educators and school leaders from around the world will gather for our virtual meet-ups to share initiatives that nurture global citizenship in schools. This will be an incredible opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired by how educators everywhere are weaving dialogue and global citizenship into everyday learning.  

Register here to join the conversation.

COP30 Youth Dialogue

As the world gathers in Belém, Brazil for COP30 this November, we’re inviting young people everywhere to join the conversation through virtual Youth Dialogues on Climate Change, taking place from 10–14 November 2025. 

Students from over 40 countries will come together to exchange perspectives on climate impacts in their communities and explore collective solutions for a sustainable future. 

Registrations for COP30 Youth Dialogues can be done here.

Teacher webinar: Exploring AI in dialogue education

How can AI support meaningful dialogue and authentic student voice? In this upcoming Teacher Webinar, ‘AI and Dialogue: Supporting Learners in Finding Their Authentic Voice,’ participants will explore both the possibilities and limitations of using AI to help learners develop and practice dialogue skills. The session will highlight current research and pedagogy, while offering practical strategies for leveraging AI in classrooms. 

Moderated by Angélica Santana Fierro, Education Specialist at Generation Global, and Lorenzo Raffio, Digital and MEAL Lead at Generation Global, the webinar will unpack how technology can both challenge and enhance deeper, more meaningful conversations in education. 

Register here soon to join the discussion.

Classroom toolkit for Peace Day

This toolkit provides ready-to-use classroom activities that encourage students to reflect on what peace means, explore perspectives from different cultures and religions, and practice dialogue skills that foster empathy and understanding.  

Download here: https://generation.global/assets/resources/peace-day.pdf

“I want to try more dialogue in my classroom versus the discussion and the debate. I want my students to be critical thinkers, open minded and confident young people. Through the Generation Global programme, I will be able to provide these opportunities for my students”

- MABUKWE Mariette, Teacher Fawe Girls’ School

“I feel very happy to be a part of Generation Global and it has always ensured inclusivity. Inclusion thrives on open dialogue, and I also feel very happy and free to express my views and perspectives without the fear of being judged.”

- Ridharshini, student from UAE

On 25 August, the Russian Prosecutor General’s Office declared the activities of the Swiss non-governmental organization International Baccalaureate (IB) undesirable.

If you reside within the Russian Federation, your involvement in all Generation Global activities must end and your account will be blocked. Collaboration or communication with any member of Generation Global or IB staff is no longer possible.

To comply with this ruling, we kindly ask that you do not join upcoming Generation Global sessions.

Students residing outside the Russian Federation may continue to participate in our activities, but you must not contact, collaborate with, or share Generation Global materials with any student, school, or organization located in Russia. These restrictions apply to all channels (email, messaging apps, video calls, shared documents, social media, and online platforms).

We deeply regret that this decision may interrupt the work of students and schools, and we affirm our belief that every young person deserves access to rigorous, future-focused education.

Welcome to our Q2 2025 newsletter! 

The second quarter of 2025 has been an exciting time of connection, collaboration, and growth at Generation Global.

From celebrating Earth Day with over 900 young people in 23 dialogues, to expanding our in-person impact across schools in India and the UAE, we’ve seen the power of dialogue come alive, in classrooms, communities, and online spaces.

We launched a new topic on Leadership, empowering students to reflect on the values and skills needed to lead with empathy and purpose. Our Youth and Educator Advisory Groups brought diverse voices to the table to shape future programme development, while the Educator Meet-up offered a space for professional learning and exchange on upskilling strategies.

We also had the honour of engaging with global education communities through events like GESS Saudi Arabia and the Nord Anglia Student Summit in the U.S., where our team highlighted the role of dialogue in creating inclusive, future-ready learning environments.

Thank you for being a part of our growing global community. Read on to explore the stories, voices, and impact from this quarter!

Best,

The Generation Global Team

Celebrating Earth Day through Earth Day Dialogues

Between April 21 to April 25, we organised 23 virtual dialogues on the topic of Climate Change, in honour of Earth Day 2025, bringing together 920+ young people from 15 countries, including Armenia, Rwanda, Pakistan, Turkey, and the UK. During the dialogues, students shared firsthand experiences of climate impacts in their communities, exchanged innovative solutions, and strengthened their global citizenship skills through active listening and respectful communication.  

One participant from Indonesia reflected:

“I learned that the impacts of climate change vary greatly in each country - from long droughts to frequent floods - and realized that, even though the impacts differ, we are all facing the same challenge. It motivated me to start taking small actions, like reducing plastic use and saving electricity, and to inspire others around me to care more about the environment.” 

👉 Interested in joining our future events? Explore our events page to see what’s coming up.

Plan Ahead: July - December 2025 Video Conference Schedule Now Live!

Ready to explore global issues and engage in intercultural experiences in the next semester? The latest video conference schedule is now available on the Ultimate Dialogue Adventure, featuring 18 topics. Whether you’re an educator planning ahead or a student eager to connect with peers around the world, now’s the time to get involved.

👉 Educators: Log in to review the schedule and book sessions for your students.

👉 Students: Complete a module and book your next video conference experience.

Building Global Citizens: School Visits in India & UAE 

This quarter, our partnership team brought in-person dialogue workshops to classrooms across India and the UAE, sparking meaningful conversations on global citizenship.  

In India, we visited 7 schools across Delhi-NCR, Haryana, and Punjab, reaching over 2,000 students with our engaging, reflective sessions. These schools include including DBRA ASOSE Kashmiri Gate, Bhavan Vidyalaya Panchkula, Sacred Heart Moga, Delhi Public World School Noida, Gurukul the School, GD Goenka Public School Model Town Delhi and the DCM group of schools.  

In the UAE, we connected with 5 schools and engaged with more than 260 young people, including Our Own English High School Al Warqa, Al Sedra Private School, GEMS Modern Academy, The International School Choueifat Sharjah, The Millennium Dubai.

These visits also fostered valuable connections with school leaders and educators who are committed to creating globally minded learning environments.

👉 For any partnership enquiries or if your school would like an offline/online dialogue workshop, send us a message. 

Educator Meetup 

In April, 147 educators from 22 countries came together for our global meet-up focused on enhancing professional development and upskilling. The session explored how teachers are growing their skills, individually and institutionally, through powerful tools, courses, and practices. The participants enjoyed the session’s relevance, networking opportunities, and value in learning something new. 

👉 Stay tuned to our Educator Events page for future events.

Youth and Educator Advisory Groups: Co-Creating a More Inclusive Generation Global 

Generation Global’s Youth and Educator Advisory Groups convened this June, bringing together perspectives from across the world to inform programme development.  

In sessions hosted by Lorenzo Raffio and Lisa Petro, 22 young people from 8 countries shared insights on their experience with the programme, explored how AI could support dialogue, including a new AI Companion Tool currently being tested, and proposed creative ways to keep peers engaged through new interactive dialogue activities. On the educators’ side, 14 teachers from 11 countries reflected on how they integrate Generation Global into their teaching, its alignment with their curricula, and the types of support or professional development they would find most valuable.  

These regularly held advisory sessions, bringing together the voices of learners and educators from diverse backgrounds and countries, each with unique experiences of the programme, help Generation Global continue to evolve in response to their needs. 

👉 Interested in joining an advisory group? Keep an eye on our website and emails for future opportunities.

Explore What It Means to Lead – New Topic Leadership Launch 

Leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about actions that inspire, include, and bring people together. Our new Leadership topic invites young people to explore leadership as a skill that can be developed at any age. 

Through real-world examples and practical dialogue-based activities, learners will deepen key skills like active listening, reflection, critical thinking, and questioning - all essential to becoming a confident, value-driven leader. 

👉 Students can explore this new module and grow their leadership skills on the Ultimate Dialogue Adventure.

👉 Teachers can review the topic and assign it to learners via their Teacher Dashboard.

Participation in GESS Saudi Arabia

Lucy Hayter, our Director, represented Generation Global at GESS Saudi Arabia from 26–28 May, where she delivered two sessions - one on intercultural dialogue and another on equipping young people with future-ready skills. The event brought together global education leaders to discuss topics including AI, safeguarding, leadership, lifelong learning, and youth agency. Her participation helped raise the profile of our work to schools and school networks in the Middle East region in global citizenship education.

Nord Anglia Student Summit in Texas, United States 

In June, our Education and Quality Lead, Lisa Petro, attended the Nord Anglia Education Student Summit to lead an inspiring session on the power of dialogue as a force for social change. Students explored how dialogue goes beyond conversation - it’s a tool for building empathy, inclusion, and meaningful community engagement. Through practical strategies and interactive activities, students learned how to apply dialogue skills to lead on the issues that matter most to them. 

Blog: The World in a Video Conference – Kshirin’s story with Generation Global

What started as simple curiosity led Kshirin, a student from India, on an extraordinary journey across borders and ideas - through 63 video conferences with peers from around the world. In her reflection, she shares how meaningful conversations helped her grow from a curious participant to a confident global citizen, learning to listen, understand, and care more deeply about the world. 

👉 Read her inspiring story and discover the power of dialogue to connect and transform.

Recorded Teacher Webinar: Deepening Dialogue - Helping Students Communicate for Greater Understanding

Looking to foster deeper understanding and more meaningful conversations in your classroom?

This recorded webinar explores how dialogue, when used as an instructional strategy, can transform learning by promoting reflection, respect, and inquiry. You’ll learn how to support learners in engaging in real conversations and reaching mutual understanding through consistent practice. 

👉 Watch the recording and discover how to strengthen your teaching with deeper dialogue. 

“Being in the Educator community of Generation Global makes me feel well because I meet with other teachers worldwide, we share views, and how we understand things differently. And I come to understand others’ views about social things or general issues that we used to encounter as people. And we look for solutions.”

- Noel Mporebuke, teacher at GS Kacyiru II, Rwanda

“I’ve always believed that young people have the power to shape our world—and Generation Global is a platform that makes youth inclusion real. Many in our generation feel isolated or stuck in our phones, without safe spaces to talk freely and be heard. Generation Global has helped students like me build real connections and communication skills through online intercultural dialogues”

- Manmohan, student at Sacred Heart School, Moga, Punjab, India

I’m Kshirin, a proud participant of Generation Global, a journey that began with curiosity and grew into connection.

I still remember the day when in my school, there was an orientation conducted on Generation Global. Honestly, it sounded like one of those programs you join, attend once, and forget. But as the elaboration began, it piqued my interest. Talking with peers from all around the world? Staying internationally connected? What more could I want? The world’s global issues, all bundled up in a single platform. And something inside me stirred. What if this is different?

I registered and then found myself staring at topics that seemed intimidating. For a moment, I wondered if I was ready for conversations that transcended borders, cultures, nationalities. A conversation only between citizens of the Earth. But then I reminded myself — every journey begins with a first step. And so, I took mine. I registered for the first video conference of my life, and just like that, my journey with Generation Global began.

At first, it was simple curiosity. I wanted to peek into the lives of students from all around the globe; I wanted to see what made their lives similar or different from mine. That curiosity became about understanding that the world’s problems weren’t ‘out there’, they involved all of us. And conversations were the first step toward change. I had a desire to listen, speak, and truly be part of something bigger.

My first time was nerve-racking, unforgettable and… totally worth it! I sat in front of the camera, my palms sweaty, and my mind running in all directions. What if I mess up while I speak? Will I be really able to do this? Would I have anything valuable to say? Students from different countries filled the screen — each with unique accents, backgrounds, experiences. But, as the conference started, all my worries dissolved. No one was here to judge. My thoughts weren’t earth-shattering, yet they were a start. For me.

Before Generation Global, I viewed global issues from a distance — important but not entirely connected to me. But after that conference, I started thinking beyond my own world. I grew curious, and then conscious. Generation Global reshaped my perspective. I learned the art of listening — not just hearing, but truly understanding someone else’s story. I found courage to share my own views, even when they felt small. I realized that what’s normal for me could be a struggle for someone else. And most importantly, I learned that change doesn’t always come from grand speeches or protests. Sometimes, it starts in a quiet conversation between people who care.

I recall many memorable video conferences, each leaving a mark on me in a different way. In one of them, a student raised a powerful question: “If gender issues have existed for hundreds of years, why are we only talking about them now?”. That moment stayed with me. In these sessions, I’ve shared my views, asked thoughtful questions, and have had questions directed at me in return. Though I still feel a flutter of nervousness before I speak, the supportive environment always puts me at ease.

But this journey is far from over. Every conversation adds a new layer to my understanding and adds more questions. Sometimes, I leave a conference having much more questions than answers, and that doesn’t frustrate me. The greatest lesson? Being a citizen of the Earth is about being aware, curious, and choosing to care. I’m still learning, still growing. And for once, I’m excited about not having all the answers. Because it means that there is still so much world left for me to discover.

Welcome to our Q1 2025 newsletter!

2025 is off to a powerful start for Generation Global. In March, we proudly joined the International Baccalaureate (IB) a milestone that strengthens our mission and expands opportunities to connect more young people through dialogue and global learning.

We also launched the Dialogue Diary, a special publication celebrating the voices of young people and educators in our community. And in its fourth year, #MyFreedomDay Dialogues brought together over 260 students from 15 countries to explore the realities of modern slavery and the importance of digital safety and survivor support.

We were honoured to be recognised in the UNESCO Global Education Coalition 2025 Annual Report, highlighting our role in equipping young people with dialogue-based skills for global citizenship and employability.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Read on to explore this quarter’s stories, milestones, and shared impact!

Best,

The Generation Global Team

Generation Global joins the International Baccalaureate (IB)

In March, Generation Global became part of the International Baccalaureate (IB). This milestone strengthens our commitment to global citizenship education and opens new opportunities to reach even more learners—within and beyond the IB network—through dialogue, connection, and shared learning.  

👉Read the full announcement

Introducing the Dialogue Diary

We’ve launched a special publication celebrating stories of dialogue from across our global community. Featuring voices from our partnership with the Muslim World League, the book highlights how conversations build empathy, connection, and global citizenship.

👉 Explore the Dialogue Diary

#MyFreemdomDay Dialogues in March

In its fourth year, #MyFreedomDay Dialogues this March, brought together 260+ young people from 15 countries to discover the realities of modern slavery, the role of social media in exploitation, and the importance of survivor rehabilitation.

👉 Interested in joining our future events? Explore our events page to see what’s coming up.

Reviewing Topics on Teacher Portal

Educators can now use the Teacher Portal to review learning modules in the Ultimate Dialogue Adventure. This mirrors students’ experiences and helps teachers understand topics and activities, align them with the curriculum, prepare learners for dialogues, and find lesson plan inspiration.

👉 Check out our step-by-step guidance.

UNESCO Global Education Coalition participation

Lorenzo Raffio, Digital and MEAL Lead, represented Generation Global at UNESCO Global Education Coalition (GEC) Meeting in Paris. Over 290 participants discussed the Coalition’s impact since 2020 and set targets for the 2030 education agenda. Generation Global, mentioned in the UNESCO GEC 2025 Annual Report, is recognised for helping youth develop critical skills and global citizenship through dialogue-based learning.

Recorded Webinar: Dialogues in Science Education

Want to foster curiosity, critical thinking, and meaningful conversations in your STEM classroom? This webinar shows how dialogue engages students with ethical questions, deepens understanding, and views science beyond just facts. You’ll get practical strategies and resources for creating a dialogue-friendly classroom environment.

👉 Watch the recording

Blog: Generation Global Clubs in Action

From India to Indonesia and across the Middle East, educators and youth are elevating the Generation Global programme through innovative clubs. We connected with some of them to learn about their exciting initiatives and best practices. Explore our blog to uncover their inspiring ideas-you might find the inspiration to start your own club at your school. Read here

Blog: Empowering Rwanda Youth with Global Citizenship Skills

In collaboration with Rwanda’s Ministry of Education and Basic Education Board, we’ve reached 4,300 students and trained 70 teachers in Kigali. Through dialogue on topics like climate change and peace, students from 10 schools connected with peers in 40 countries, building empathy, digital literacy, and global citizenship skills. Read the full story

• Classroom Ready Science Activity Blocks
  As we observe Earth Day this month, our Science Activity Blocks on Climate Change and Biodiversity can be valuable resources for fostering dialogue in your classroom. These resources are designed to help learners build dialogue skills and explore global issues, even without internet access. They’re ready to download and use in your classroom. Download here!

• Taking the spotlight in UNESCO report
  We’re thrilled to share that Generation Global is featured in the 5th UNESCO Global Education Coalition Report! Since its launch, the Coalition has empowered 1M+ youth with employability skills and trained 1M+ teachers-and we’re proud to contribute to this achievement. This recognition reinforces our shared commitment to inclusive, equitable education for all. Full report here!

“In today’s polarised world, programmes promoting tolerance become increasingly crucial. Generation Global creates a safe and inclusive space for young people to develop positive attitudes and skills to navigate this ever-changing world. I hope the programme inspires students to embrace diversity, not only on a global scale but also within Indonesia’s rich cultural contexts.”
- Wati Wardani, Retired Facilitator and Country Coordinator, Indonesia

“When I joined Generation Global, I opened the door to an online adventure. A door to a world of stories, perspectives, and voices beyond my own. I spoke with people from distant lands and found myself in their words - sometimes challenged, often inspired, always changed. It’s rare to find a space where you are not only allowed, but encouraged to question, to share, to be. I now understand that empathy travels faster than borders, and change begins with a single conversation. I’ve listened, I’ve learned - and above all, I’ve grown. It didn’t just offer me a place to share; it gave me a purpose. It taught me that when young minds speak with courage and curiosity, change isn’t just possible - it’s inevitable.”
- Kshirin Maitray, Student, India

This acquisition strengthens the IB’s commitment to elevating, connecting, and investing in youth globally. The Generation Global platform will offer the IB an opportunity to engage directly with young learners across its network of 6,000 schools, fostering intercultural understanding, empowering student agency, and connecting youth around the local and global issues they care about most.

For TBI, the IB’s acquisition elevates the potential of Generation Global to expand and grow, affording millions of young people within and outside the IB network the opportunity to further develop key competencies for life and work, such as critical thinking and global communication. It also provides an exciting opportunity for Generation Global’s existing participants to engage with IB learners and educators from new countries, enhancing an already diverse and inclusive community from over 50 countries.

This key moment builds on the IB and TBI’s existing two-year partnership and a shared mission to equip young people with the skills, knowledge and attitudes to become open minded global learners. Through an ongoing partnership between the IB and TBI, the organisations will seek to collaborate in supporting education ministries worldwide in furthering their education goals.

Quote from Olli-Pekka Heinonen, Director General, IB:

“The acquisition presents a significant opportunity for the IB to broaden the reach of our education philosophy to a diverse global student body. We are excited to work with the Generation Global team and its unique platform to mobilize students to connect and act on the issues that matter most to them. This excellent work will help young people around the world apply their creativity, strengthen their intercultural understanding, and address global issues while contributing to their local communities.”

Quote from Tony Blair, Executive Chairman, TBI:

“I am incredibly proud of Generation Global which, over the years, has provided a safe space for young people to come together, reaching across communities, cultures and countries to embrace difference, think critically and engage with peers around the world. The International Baccalaureate, the centre of educational excellence, will be a perfect home to ensure that this important work of Generation Global will continue to thrive and reach its full potential.”

About the International Baccalaureate:

Founded in 1968, the International Baccalaureate (IB) pioneered a movement of international education and now offers four high quality, challenging educational programmes to students aged 3-19. The IB gives students distinct advantages by providing strong foundations, critical thinking skills, and proficiency for solving complex problems while encouraging diversity, curiosity, and a healthy appetite for learning and excellence. In a world where asking the right questions is as important as discovering answers, the IB champions critical thinking and flexibility in study by crossing disciplinary, cultural, and national boundaries. Supported by world-class educators and coordinators, the IB currently engages with more than two million students in over 6,000 schools across more than 160 countries. To find out more, please visit www.ibo.org.

About Generation Global:

Generation Global is the global citizenship education programme of the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, a not for profit organisation based in the UK. Generation Global supports young people to develop intercultural dialogue skills e.g. critical thinking, global communication. The programme connects young people online with their global peers through dialogue videoconferences and written dialogue spaces on contemporary issues linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. To date the programme has reached over 600,000 young people and trained over 15,000 educators in over 50 countries.

As you read through these experiences, you’ll see the transformation in our community—the growth, the connections, the courage to speak up, and the willingness to listen. Whether you’re an educator, a student, or a member of our community, this is a celebration of the transformative power of dialogue and a reminder that through dialogue, we can bridge divides, inspire change, and create a more compassionate world.

A big thank you to everyone who’s supported us and made this possible—your contributions have truly made a difference. Thank you for being here with us, and for continuing to be a part of this powerful movement of connection, learning, and hope.

What a year it’s been for Generation Global! In 2024, we reached over 42,000 young people and 2,300 educators from 98 countries, creating 600+ global connections and 37,200 minutes of dialogue in six languages. It’s amazing to see 82% of young people reported an improvement in their dialogue skills, showing the power of these conversations to foster empathy and understanding.

This quarter, we launched Inclusive Communities, a new topic that helps young people explore connections in school, neighbourhoods, and online, and introduced Classroom Ready Science Activity Blocks focused on Climate Change and Biodiversity. Our educator webinar also shared tips for preparing learners for global video conferences, helping you bring the world into your classroom.

There were many standout moments: 800 learners from 26 countries joined COP29 Youth Dialogues to discuss climate change, while 450 learners participated in Girls’ Day Dialogues, envisioning a fairer future. In Rwanda, over 4,300 learners and 70 educators celebrated a year of global connections on issues like peace and climate change.

Globally, we shone at Bett Asia, where we hosted the Bett EdTech 10 list and judged the SDG Schools Challenge. Our Power of Dialogue webinar with International Baccalaureate (IB) shared strategies for integrating dialogue into IB curricula and empowering global citizens. Also, we’re a finalist for the GESS Awards 2024 for Best Free App/Software Product/Resource—a huge testament to the hard work of everyone involved.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we’re shaping a more connected, inclusive future. Read on to see what we’ve achieved together!

Warm regards, Team Generation Global

Dive into an exciting new topic: Inclusive Communities

Invite your learners to explore how connections at school, in neighbourhoods, online, and beyond shape our experiences. They will learn what makes a community, why it matters, and how dialogue fosters inclusivity and belonging. It is available on the Ultimate Dialogue Adventure.

Classroom Ready Science Activity Blocks

We’ve created science activity blocks on Climate Change and Biodiversity. These resources are designed to help learners build dialogue skills and explore global issues, even without internet access. They’re ready to download and use in your classroom. Download here!

COP29 Youth Dialogues

Over 800 learners from 26 countries joined our COP29 Youth Dialogues to have dialogues on climate change. These virtual conversations inspired global connections, sharing perspectives, and deepening understanding of this critical issue. Also, hear from COP29 Youth Climate Champion Leyla Hasanova, here.

Girls’ Day Dialogues

In celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child, over 450 learners from 15 countries joined our Girls’ Day Dialogues. Together, they spoke about challenges, shared empowering visions, and explored actions for a more equitable world—amplifying young voices and inspiring change!

Empowering Educators with Dialogue Workshop

This quarter, we partnered with Nord Anglia Education and the State Education Office in Subang Regency, Indonesia to deliver introduction to dialogue workshops. Educators learned to create safe spaces, teach core dialogue skills, and use Generation Global’s resources for impactful learning.

Inspiring Visits to Schools in India and the Philippines

Our team visited 13 schools in the two countries, engaging with educators and 2,250 learners in workshops on global citizenship. It was inspiring to see their passion for education and dialogue in action. We’re excited to continue supporting inclusive, impactful learning experiences!

Blog: Empowering Rwandan youth with global citizenship skills

In collaboration with Rwanda’s Ministry of Education and Basic Education Board, we’ve reached 4,300 students and trained 70 teachers in Kigali. Through dialogue on topics like climate change and peace, students from 10 schools connected with peers in 40 countries, building empathy, digital literacy, and global citizenship skills. Read more here.

Generation Global: GESS Awards 2024 Finalist

Exciting news! Generation Global is a finalist for the GESS Awards 2024 in the Best Free App/Software category. This honour celebrates our mission to empower youth with global citizenship and dialogue skills. Thank you for being part of this journey!

Generation Global at Bett Asia

Our Partnerships and Communications Lead, Shruti Sharma, represented us at Bett Asia, hosting the Bett EdTech 10 list celebrating 10 trailblazing women in EdTech across Asia Pacific, judging the SDG Schools Challenge, and contributing to a roundtable on leveraging digital technologies for education transformation.

Generation Global at the IB Exchange Webinar

We partnered with IB to deliver The Power of Dialogue webinar, exploring how dialogue enhances critical thinking, understanding, and engagement across IB curricula. Educators were given access to free resources to integrate dialogue and empower students as global citizens.

• New Minecraft Learning Activity: Data Explorers
  Created by NetApp and supported by World’s Largest Lesson, Data Explorers is an exciting Minecraft Education adventure where learners use data skills to save the planet! This activity builds foundational data literacy, connects to real-world career paths, and aligns with the UNESCO Greening Education Curriculum.

• Preparing learners to engage in global video conferences
  Recently, our Education Specialist Angélica Santana Fierro shared practical steps to prepare learners for global videoconferences, fostering inclusive, brave, and meaningful dialogue while building their skills and confidence to participate actively. Watch the recording.

“Generation Global taught me that, regardless of race, we are all part of one global community. By sharing perspectives, we better understand human nature. […] This platform inspired me to view situations from multiple angles and is like a key unlocking the doors to opportunity.”
- Nehan Nubaid, Learner, Bangladesh

“[After] completing the ‘Introduction to Dialogue’ course, I’ve integrated [Generation Global] lessons into my teaching. Students appreciate the equal opportunities to share ideas, broadening their horizons and building global connections. I am grateful for this platform that empowers students as confident global citizens.”
- Ksenya Sargsyan, Educator, Armenia

“I’ve seen my students grow holistically. […] Seeing them transform into confident individuals who express their stance on social issues is commendable. Generation Global expanded opportunities for students to engage with diverse cultures. Its goal […] aligns with our school’s vision of preparing students to excel globally and inspire others.”
- Angerica M. Fesariton, Educator, Philippines

Check more testimonials on our recent Instagram posts.

The Generation Global programme, offers facilitated online video conference dialogues where young people engage in real-time, face-to-face communication with global peers, learning about different cultures, sharing perspectives, and developing communication and critical thinking skills. Additionally, the programme’s gamified and interactive online platform enables learners to hone essential dialogue skills, engage with over 17 global topics, and build intercultural connections through written and live interactions.

Under this collaboration, Generation Global has trained 70 teachers on dialogue pedagogy, core skills, practical activities and lesson plans linked with the Rwandan curriculum to incorporate dialogue-based learning into their everyday lessons. Teachers who have participated in the programme have reported a significant improvement in their understanding of dialogue and increased confidence in their abilities to teach dialogue to their students, thereby enhancing the educational experience for their students.

The programme exceeded its goals, reaching over 4,300 students and training 70 educators, surpassing the original target of 3,000 students and 50 educators. Through close to 90 video conferences, Rwandan students interacted with peers from 40 countries, across five continents, including Armenia, India, Ghana, the United States, Finland, Italy, and Malaysia. During these sessions, learners dialogued about pressing global topics such as the Future of Work, Climate Change, Peace and Security, Biodiversity, and Education. These exchanges not only enriched their understanding of global issues but also helped them develop empathy and life skills.

One student shared, “We were able to talk to different people in different schools, where we shared ideas. We were able to highlight different problems our communities are facing and come up with solutions that will contribute to the development of our nation, communities, and ourselves.”

Furthermore, teachers noted marked improvements in students’ attitudes towards diversity and their ability to engage in thoughtful discussions with peers from different cultural contexts. For instance, students who took part in video conferences reported an increase in warmth and openness toward individuals from diverse backgrounds, a key indicator of inclusivity and global citizenship. Students reported an 85% increase in their overall dialogue skills with the highest increase in active listening, critical thinking, and communication skills.

An unexpected yet powerful outcome of the programme was an increase in digital literacy skills in students. For many participants, activities such as setting up email accounts and navigating online platforms were new experiences. A teacher observed, “After participating in this programme students do no longer fear using digital tools in their activities,” reflecting the programme’s contribution to enhancing ICT skills.

The Generation Global programme in Rwanda has laid a strong foundation for promoting dialogue and open-mindedness among young people. The skills developed through this initiative will have a lasting impact, equipping the next generation of Rwandan students to engage thoughtfully with the world around them, fostering a culture of empathy, respect, and collaboration in their local and global communities.

We’ve got some exciting updates for you from the last quarter!

For our amazing educators, we’re thrilled to announce that our new interactive topic review feature is now live on the Teacher Portal. Plus, Generation Global’s low-tech resources are now available in Spanish, making it more accessible to more teachers.

We’re proud to share the success of our recent Dialogue Series: the Bett EdTech 10 Dialogues and the World Youth Skills Day Dialogues. These series featured 20 special video conferences, bringing together nearly 500 students from around the globe to discuss important topics like the Future of Work and the Rights of Girls and Women. Our Educator Meetup was also a highlight, with over 100 educators exchanging valuable insights on fostering mindfulness in their classrooms.

In the last quarter, Generation Global made its mark at several international events, including the British Council Education Exchange, AFS Youth Assembly, UNESCO UNEVOC’s World Youth Skills Day celebration, Didac India conference, and Nord Anglia Education’s UNICEF Summit. These events provided fantastic opportunities to promote global citizenship through intercultural dialogue. We’re also delighted to publish two new blogs on how Generation Global can support schools in their International School Award journey, and how schools in the United States have creatively incorporated Generation Global into their programmes.

Get ready for an adventure in every scroll. Happy Reading!

The Generation Global Team

Interactive topic review feature

Our new interactive topic review feature is now live! You can now browse topics interactively on the Teacher Portal, just like your students do in the Ultimate Dialogue Adventure. This will enhance your understanding of the topic before you assign it to your students for self-study. Access it from the Teacher Portal.

World Youth Skills Day Dialogues

In July, we hosted 15 special video conferences with over 290 students to celebrate World Youth Skills Day. Young people from 11 countries across 5 continents engaged in dialogues about the Future of Work. It was fantastic to hear such diverse perspectives!

Bett EdTech 10 Dialogues

In August, we teamed up with Bett Asia to host the Bett EdTech 10 Dialogue series. Over 200 students from 8 countries had meaningful conversations about gender equality in the EdTech space in 5 video conferences. Truly inspiring dialogues!

Educator Meetup

In September, we were thrilled to have 120 educators join us for our quarterly Educator Meetup. Educators from 17 countries shared insights on the importance of mindfulness spaces for teachers and the tools they use to create them in their classrooms. It was a great exchange of ideas from diverse perspectives!

British Council Education Exchange

Also in September, we were delighted to participate in a British Council webinar. Educators shared their insights on “Teaching young people the skills of dialogue in a global world.” Lisa Petro, our Education and Quality Lead, along with Anisha Pareek, a Generation Global educator from DAV School shared strategies for incorporating intercultural dialogue in classrooms using Generation Global to support global citizenship education. You can watch the recording on the British Council’s website.

Blog: Empowering Global Education: Achieving British Council ISA Awards with Generation Global

Check out our latest blog, written by one of our coordinators, Kannan Nair, on how Generation Global is helping schools achieve the British Council ISA Awards. Discover our tools and resources that will help you integrate international activities into your curriculum and meet ISA requirements.

Blog: Spotlight on Integration of the Generation Global Programme by Educators in the USA

This blog highlights how schools in the United States are creatively incorporating Generation Global. Through dialogue, educators are transforming lessons into opportunities for critical thinking and expanding perspectives. You can read more about it here.

Generation Global at the AFS Youth Assembly

The 2024 AFS Youth Assembly took place from August 16-18 in New York City. The panel on “Fine Tuning Skills for the Jobs of Tomorrow” addressed disruptions in the global economy due to the pandemic, conflicts, inflation, and technological advancements. Lisa Petro, our Education and Quality Lead, was among the panelists, sharing insights on preparing young people for the evolving job market.

UNESCO’s UNEVOC’s World Youth Skills Day 2024 Celebration

During UNEVOC’s World Youth Skills Day 2024 event on July 15, one of our coordinators, Nurfitra Asa, spoke on the panel about Policy, Partnership, and Collaboration. This panel focused on the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships in building an equitable, peaceful and inclusive future of work.

Generation Global at Didac India Conference

Our Marketing and Communications Lead, Shruti Sharma, led a workshop for educators on using dialogue as a key instructional strategy to foster global citizenship skills. This workshop was conducted during the 14th Didac India conference.

Generation Global at Nord Anglia Education’s UNICEF Summit

We were delighted to participate in NAE’s UNICEF Summit in Houston in June. Our Education and Quality Lead, Lisa Petro, conducted impactful workshops with 123 young leaders on dialogue for social change. She also guided 37 Social Impact Coordinators on how to support student leaders in developing strategies to build dialogic communities.

• Explore Generation Global’s Classroom Ready Activity Blocks to empower students with the skills of dialogue and global citizenship, even in low-connectivity environments. These resources are available in both English and Spanish. Click here to access them.

• Get some ideas on how you can safely promote your students’ participation in Generation Global video conferences with our comprehensive video conference promotion guidelines, available to read here.

• Generation Global is proud to a featured partner of World’s Largest Lesson, highlighting our commitment to fostering open-minded global citizens through intercultural dialogue, and don’t miss the new Global Goals Week Lesson Toolkit 2024 for engaging resources and activities, available here.

Read more testimonials on our recent Instagram posts.

Case study: Preparing for Dialogue through classroom activities

Rachel from Analy High School in California has been engaging with Generation Global for 12 years now, watching the programme move from offline dialogue activities to instant online connections. This means she still utilises some of our original core skill building activities that worked well for her, teaching and preparing her students for dialogue even before they join the online Generation Global platforms. She focuses on global citizenship, and finds a strong correlation between the topics and events offered by Generation Global and the topics she teaches in the classroom. Beyond encouraging her students engagement, she has been active in the educator community, fostering connections with educators around the world.

When Generation Global released the online Ultimate Dialogue Adventure, Rachel joined us and has brought several classes to videoconferences over the years. This is partly due to her trust in the programme, which she described as feeling a level of safety she hadn’t previously found with global online edtech, but did whenever she logged in to a videoconference and saw the familiar face of one of our team. One of her favourite videoconferences was in fact with a neighbouring school from the same region – despite their similarities, her students found significant differences between them and the other class, encouraging them to re-examine their assumptions about the variety of perspectives and experiences people might have over even a small geographical difference.

Case study: Lunchtime clubs and career development

Cary from Farragut Career Academy in Illinois is the kind of educator who makes young people want to stay in the classroom. He has incorporated Generation Global into lunchtime clubs and extra credit activities, presenting it as an opportunity to further their educational horizons. In World Studies and Freshman Seminar, he has used the Generation Global programme to support teaching open-mindedness and communication through dialogue.

He first gets students interested by highlighting the opportunity to meet young people from around the world in a structured, supportive environment – which many young people may not have the chance to do otherwise. Then, he makes the wide range of topics we offer work for them. In some cases, that might mean integrating a topic into class, for example in the International Baccalaureate Career Programme where future doctors engage in Health & Wellbeing videoconferences and future teachers engage in Education videoconferences – an hour-long online facilitated dialogue over Zoom, where students connect with peers from around the world to dialogue about global issues and sensitive topics. Other times it is as simple as allowing the students to decide what topic means the most to them, and letting them lead the way.

Cary has the following advice for other teachers – “My advice to teachers is to make sure to prepare your students about the topics, but also the dialogue skills. More importantly, I highly recommend taking the time to sign up for Generation Global and provide their students with this memorable opportunity.”

Case study: Shaping the next generation of teachers through dialogue

For some teachers, Generation Global offers an opportunity to dive deeper into their class content. Jasmine from East Kentwood High School in Michigan teaches an elective class called Educators Rising, developing future teachers and integrating Generation Global into class time as part of the course. She and her class join Education videoconferences each year to learn about education in different countries, and share their experiences and hopes for the future of education. When they book into a videoconference, her class will check which other countries they will be dialoguing with to do some preliminary research into the education systems in those countries, to ensure they can ask informed questions and make the most of the opportunity to meet them.

She particularly likes that the students get to steer the conversation, and it is relatively hands-off for teachers during the videoconference. She encourages her students to come up with questions during their preparation, so they can contribute and encourage the dialogue with their peers during the session. She has found that her students can be a bit hesitant to start, but once they begin they always find their voices.

Case study: Integrating dialogue training throughout the school community

Some schools truly take the pedagogy of dialogue to heart, sharing it with every member of the school community and thereby fostering a culture of open and respectful communication, that impacts every aspect of school life. Schools of the Sacred Heart in San Francisco is an International Baccalaureate school, so has always had a global mindset that they share with their students. They undertook the Essentials of Dialogue training offered by Generation Global with all members of the school community, to give them a grounding in dialogue that would support many other initiatives to expand their students’ perspectives.

Rachel, the Head of Convent High School and Chief Academic Officer, said: “The dialogue framework allows us to withhold judgment, and to engage with one another in a spirit of curiosity and open-mindedness. International mindedness requires that we know where we are coming from and what and how we think, but not to stay there. The practice of dialogue expands our capacity for encounter with other ideas and with people who may hold different values and beliefs. 

Our school has engaged all community members in the Essentials of Dialogue training and we have incorporated dialogue into all-school events when we invite an author to present to our community on a given topic. Last year, we invited the historian Annette Gordon-Reed to talk about Jefferson and the complexity, challenges and contradictions within his life story and his legacy. Professor Gordon-Reed’s presentation launched a day of dialogue, where students and faculty discussed topics such as problematic monuments, the concept of reparations and immigration. Our work with Generation Global is an anchor for our school. It has changed the way we engage difference, allowing us to live more fully into the mission of the IB that states “other people, with their differences, can also be right.”

If there is one common thread between these examples, it is their dedication to bringing the opportunities and skills of dialogue to their students in whichever way works best for them. Why not try some of their approaches, and bring dialogue into your classroom?

About the British Council ISA award

The British Council International School Award (ISA) is a global accreditation that recognises good practices in incorporating the international dimension into schools. The process involves action planning, compiling evidence, and submitting an evaluation. Successful schools are accredited for three years. Schools must meet the specific requirements for the accreditation level they seek. Whether your school is just beginning or aiming for a particular accreditation level, Generation Global offers resources and materials to support you at every stage of your journey.

How Generation Global resources help you fulfill requirements at every accreditation level

At the Foundation level, where schools introduce internationalism, Generation Global’s video conferences are a perfect addition. Video conferences are 60-minute, live facilitated sessions for young people aged 13-17 to interact, connect, and dialogue with global peers on complex social issues. Educators can easily register their students for these conferences on topics aligning with the existing academic curriculum, connecting them with peers in foreign schools to fulfil the requirement of one international classroom activity.

Progressing to the Intermediate level involves demonstrating three curriculum-based international activities. Generation Global provides a wealth of topical resources on global issues like climate change, quality education, hate speech, and more available in the Generation Global Teacher Portal. These resources include interactive skill building activities, lesson plans, worksheets that can be easily integrated within the existing curriculum, thus supporting educators to enhance students’ understanding of diverse cultures and global issues, fostering essential life skills. Educators can use these resources along with the live international video conferencing opportunities for students to adapt their lesson plans to demonstrate evidence for curriculum based international activities.

At the Accreditation level, schools must engage in a yearlong planning process. As a part of this, schools can include a Generation Global international day linked dialogue event as one of the seven required curriculum-based international activities. In these dialogue events, participants are encouraged to think critically about how each global issue is relevant in their own lives and communities, identifying ways they can connect with their peers on these issues. They will apply the five core skills of dialogue (Global Communication, Active Listening, Critical Thinking, Questioning, Reflection) in live interactions with peers from all over the world to explore personal experiences, perspectives, and the impacts of global issues. Some examples of these dialogue series include SDG Dialogue Series, My Freedom Day Dialogue Series, and Biodiversity Dialogues.

For schools aiming for Reaccreditation, they can direct their students to engage in the online dialogue spaces on global issues on the Generation Global student portal called the Ultimate Dialogue Adventure (UDA). The UDA is a gamified and fun online portal for young people, through which, they can earn badges and certificates, collect points to become “dialogue masters,” and learn how to apply dialogue in real life.

Furthermore, for the intermediate, accreditation, and reaccreditation levels, the eligibility criteria includes covering more than half of the school population. While video conferences are designated for learners aged 13-17, Generation Global’s free resources can be adapted for all age groups. This inclusivity helps meet participation criteria for ISA awards and maximizes student involvement across the school.

A Case Study in success: Vanee’s ISA journey with Generation Global

Vanee Gopalan, an arts and mass media teacher from Delhi Public School, Bangalore South, India, utilised Generation Global resources to win the ISA award for two consecutive terms. Her approach exemplifies the programme’s effectiveness in promoting international awareness among learners. She spearheaded various initiatives, including online video conferences on topics like religion and festivals. Through these online exchanges, students gained global exposure and a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity—an essential aspect of the ISA’s objectives. Ms. Gopalan aptly stated, ‘Every bit of such smaller steps helped us complete the big picture’.

Vanee utilised Generation Global resources in a three-step process:

• Select a relevant topic: Vanee begins by selecting a relevant topic linked with the unit of the subject she is teaching. She utilises the skill-building resources in the classroom to practice dialogue and communication skills with her students linked with a global issue.
• Preparing for online video conferencing: Vanee uses the guiding questions offered by Generation Global to stimulate critical thinking on the global issue, helping students prepare for the online video conference dialogues with their peers.
• Schedule an international video conference: Vanee books her students into one of the slots from the scheduled options listed in the Generation Global educator portal, which currently offers 3 to 4 slots available each weekday. The sessions begin with students responding to guiding questions. After sharing, students can ask questions to each other, and the session concludes with students reflecting on what they learned from the session.

Tips for aspiring educators

For educators aiming to integrate Generation Global into their ISA award journey, consider the following tips:

• Customise lesson plans: Educators can plan their year by reviewing the subject units and goals they want to achieve through Generation Global. Then, educators can select the dialogue skills and corresponding skill building activities. Finally, educators can choose a Generation Global topics that aligns with the subject units, to teach the skills through. Educators can adapt their existing lesson plans to include Generation Global skill building activities and resources.
• Monitor Video Conference schedules: Keep track of video conference schedules, typically posted at the start of every year. Early access allows you to secure desired slots for student participation, enhancing engagement and learning opportunities.
• Select Generation Global resources with corresponding award levels: Educators can target the award level they are aiming for and use the corresponding Generation Global resources to support their efforts.

Take the next step with Generation Global

Vanee Gopalan’s success with the ISA award is a testament to the power of integrating Generation Global into your curriculum. By following her example, you, too can enrich your students’ learning experiences and achieve international recognition.

Explore the free tools and resources Generation Global offers. Transform your school’s approach to global learning and inspire the next generation of global citizens. To know more visit the Generation Global website. Or have questions about implementing Generation Global? Reach out to us at helpdesk@generation.global.

Appendix: Award Levels and Requirements

Foundation level

• Application requirements:
  • At least one curriculum-based international activity enhancing student’s understanding of other countries, cultures and global issues.
• Generation Global resource to be used: Generation Global video conferences

Intermediate level

• Application requirements:
  • Schools must show three curriculum-based international activities.
  • One activity must involve a foreign partner.
  • At least half the students must be impacted.
• Generation Global resource to be used: Topical resources on global issues

Accreditation level

• Application requirements:
  • Schools must submit a plan to complete over the school year. It must include:
    • Seven curriculum-based international activities,
    • One activity must contain a foreign language element, connected to learning about the culture of another country.
    • Must include cultural exchange elements
    • Activities spread throughout the school year and cover various subjects
    • Majority of students across different age ranges must participate
• Generation Global resource to be used: Sign up learners for dialogue series: SDG Dialogue Series, My Freedom Day Dialogue Series, Biodiversity Dialogues and many more

Re-accreditation level

• Application requirements:
  • Seven curriculum-based international activities
  • Three activities in partnership with schools in other countries
  • One activity must contain foreign language learning, connected to the learning about the culture of another country,
  • Must include cultural exchange elements
  • Activities spread throughout the school year and various subjects
  • Students across different age ranges must participate
  • Schools should act as ambassadors, sharing knowledge and skills on internationalism and helping to up-skill others
• Generation Global resource to be used: Engage in online dialogue spaces in the UDA

Welcome to our second action-packed newsletter of 2024! This edition is brimming with exciting updates as we share best practices, whether through engaging webinars, insightful blogs, or meaningful on-the-ground meetings with our community. You definitely don’t want to miss this!

In this edition, you will uncover our brand-new topic on Biodiversity and see how young minds are exploring the interconnectedness of our planet. Relive the magic of Earth Day with over 600 students from around the world sharing their climate change stories and catch the highlights from our dynamic webinar titled ‘Dialogue as a tool for understanding SDGs’. See how our school visits in India, Indonesia, UAE, and Rwanda are making waves.

But wait, there’s more! Dive into our latest blogs showcasing the incredible journeys of young people and educators transforming classrooms and communities globally. And join the celebration as Generation Global shines in the UNESCO annual report!

Let’s celebrate global citizenship and dialogue-driven learning together!

Happy reading,

The Generation Global Team

Dive into the world of biodiversity with our latest topic!

In our interconnected world, preserving Earth is crucial for both its well-being and humanity’s future. Through our new Biodiversity topic, young people will explore the interconnectedness of nature and why it’s essential to protect our planet. They will learn about the impact of human actions on the environment and discover practical ways to live more sustainably.

You can access this topic from your Teacher Dashboard.

Celebrated Earth Day with Engaging Dialogues!

This April, in celebration of Earth Day, we brought together 600 learners from 17 countries —including Afghanistan, Burkina Faso, Congo, Greece, Lebanon, and South Korea—for virtual dialogues on climate change. They shared firsthand experiences of its impacts in their communities and discussed proactive measures to combat this pressing issue.

One standout moment came from a student in Afghanistan who shared their reflections: “I asked about the experience of my peers from the climate change and almost all of them answered my question which was really sad because of the problems that are made by climate change around the world. In addition, the innovative actions that my peers and their communities have taken to stop climate crisis are all very inspiring.”

First Educator Meetup of 2024

In April, we organised a meetup for educators focused on ‘Innovation in the Classroom - Taking Learning to the Next Level!’ We delved into cutting-edge strategies, tools, and resources aimed at making learning more impactful and enjoyable.

A whopping 196 educators from 20 countries engaged in lively discussions, where they shared best practices and insights for creating dynamic learning environments. They exchanged insights on implementing these practices in their classrooms, fostering cross-learning opportunities. Each participant left with actionable tips to immediately enhance their teaching methods. If you missed out or want to join our next meetup, sign up here!

Dialogue as a tool for understanding SDGs 

In June, we hosted a special webinar with Angélica Santana, Education Specialist at Generation Global. Educators from around the world joined us to explore how dialogue helps students understand critical global issues, including the SDGs, and their relevance to their lives. The webinar shared practical strategies for integrating dialogue into teaching. 

Over 170 passionate educators from 22 countries participated. Catch up on the webinar recording and gain valuable insights to inspire dialogue-driven learning in your classroom.

Generation Global team on the move 

Throughout the second quarter, our coordinators in India, Indonesia, UAE, and Rwanda have been actively engaging schools with the Generation Global programme. 

We conducted workshops reaching over 500 students and 300+ educators, focusing on dialogue pedagogy and essential skills. Notable schools we visited include GEMS Our Own English High School and GEMS Cambridge International in Sharjah (UAE), Sri Seshaas International Public School (India), and SMPN 1 Cisalak, West Java (Indonesia).

What does it take to be a dialogue facilitator?

Step into the inspiring world of Wati Wardani, our esteemed Dialogue Facilitator from Indonesia. In her captivating blog, Wati reflects on her decade-long dedication to Generation Global and reveals the art of crafting meaningful dialogues in Indonesian classrooms. 

Dive into her blog to learn more about Wati’s incredible journey and her invaluable contributions to fostering dialogue-driven learning among students.

Generation Global steals the spotlight at global events

In this quarter, our Director, Lucy Hayter, captivated audiences at prestigious events including GESS Education in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the #SAASHOW hosted by EdTech Innovate in the UK. It was an incredible opportunity to showcase how dialogue pedagogy and skills are empowering young people worldwide as active global citizens, equipping them with the tools they need to shape a brighter future. Stay tuned for more exciting updates as Generation Global continues to make an impact on the global education stage.

Embracing every learner: bridging worlds through dialogue

Join Lorenzo Raffio, our Digital and MEAL Lead, as he delves into the innovative ways educators from bustling cities to remote villages are harnessing the power of Generation Global’s resources to empower learners in diverse settings. Learn about the transformative practices and insights into how dialogue serves as a bridge, connecting students and fostering understanding among students from all walks of life, here.

Discover the power of authentic dialogue with Dewi’s journey

Our latest blog post from Dewi, an alumnus of Generation Global from Indonesia, highlights the power of authentic dialogue. From her experiences as a student in West Java to her participation in the Ultimate Dialogue Adventure, Dewi sheds light on how genuine sharing strengthens our global community. Don’t miss her insightful reflections. Encourage young people you know to read and learn from her journey.

British Council endorses Introduction to Dialogue course
Generation Global and the British Council have joined forces to offer teachers essential professional development through the ‘Introduction to Dialogue’ course. This course equips educators with the skills and resources needed to enhance their teaching with effective dialogue tools. If you or someone you know is interested in fostering an inclusive learning environment centered around dialogue, check out the course.

Exciting new course from the Commonwealth Education Trust
Our partners at The Commonwealth Education Trust invite you to take the brand new TPD course, “Developing Students’ Independent Learning Skills.” This course will help you define independent learning, distinguish it from whole class learning, and discuss the benefits of students taking responsibility for their own learning. Part 1 of the course is free! Visit Teach2030 today to sign up!

Global Schools Program’s case study guide for education for sustainable development
This year, the Global Schools Program (GSP) launched a new case study guide designed to offer a detailed overview of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) lessons, activities, and implementation strategies for educators, teachers, and school administrators. Check out this new resource that provides schools with detailed accounts of amazing teachers effectively integrating sustainability into school communities.

“Generation Global has given me the platform to use my voice to make a difference and raise awareness on a topic necessary to converse about. Not only was I able to share my experience and opinions regarding a subject that I am passionate about, but I was also given the privilege of hearing the views of opinionated children my age who, like me are eager to make a change for the better.”

Armeen, Learner
Bangladesh

“Generation Global will increase students understanding of the world. Will also help us teachers, it can make us access new tools and resources and make our lessons more global.”

Educator
Rwanda

The essence of Ultimate Dialogue Adventure, a youth platform of the Generation Global programme, serves as a unique space where authenticity is key. It’s where we learn from each other, sharing experiences, stories, and perspectives to forge genuine connections. Beyond being just a platform for me to practice English, it showed me how to cultivate meaningful dialogue and become fluent in the language of global citizenship!

In my time exploring the platform, I have noticed a tendency among some students to post merely for the sake of posting. Whether it’s to appear knowledgeable by using AI to generate content or copying facts directly from Google, the essence of genuine dialogue sometimes gets lost. While AI can be a useful tool for generating information, it falls short of capturing the nuances of human emotion and personal experience. Through my attempts to use AI in crafting posts, I learned that it operates more as a tool for gathering information rather than for creating genuine connections. Humans, with our capacity for empathy and understanding, are naturally better equipped to build meaningful interactions.

Growing up in Indonesia, there’s something in the society that appreciates us more for being a walking encyclopedia rather than synthesising our own analysis based on that encyclopedia. So, I understand how students would choose to post facts because it might be what people appreciate or what the teacher wanted. We are often driven to sound “ingenious”, focusing on presenting facts rather than sharing our own unique insights.

As a student, I too strived for perfection in my posts, seeking to align with what was deemed “correct” or “intelligent.” However, I have come to realise that this approach made my contributions seem robotic and impersonal, lacking the depth and authenticity that stimulate engaging discussions. Genuine dialogue is rooted in sharing our personal thoughts and experiences which provides a richer, more fulfilling exchange.

True engagement on the UDA comes from sharing our authentic selves. When we move beyond just stating facts to sharing our personal experiences and views, we open the door to deeper, more meaningful connections. Imagine discussing a topic like geography; simply stating facts about a place might not invite much engagement. However, sharing personal experiences or unique perspectives can turn a simple exchange into a vibrant dialogue, inviting others to share, agree, or even disagree, thus enriching the conversation.

Cultivating a Community of Genuine Dialogue

As we continue our journey with the UDA, let’s embrace the beauty of sharing our genuine selves. By infusing our posts with our unique perspectives and experiences, we not only enhance our own learning experience but also contribute to a more interconnected and understanding global community.

I encourage all of you to share your journey toward genuineness in your posts. How have your contributions evolved? How has embracing your authentic voice impacted your interactions on UDA? Let’s continue to learn from each other, growing together in this global dialogue adventure.

A seasoned dialogue facilitator from Indonesia, Wati has dedicated over a decade to working with Generation Global. Residing in Indonesia, she brings a wealth of experience in supporting young people to engage in meaningful dialogue through Generation Global video conferences.

Wati served as the Indonesia Country Coordinator before her retirement, and her passion for the programme led her to continue as a dialogue facilitator. With a background as an English teacher at a private senior high school in Jakarta, Wati has decades of experience actively advocating for peace education in her school.

In this article she shares the highlights of her journey with the programme.

Q: Wati, can you share your motivation for joining Generation Global, especially during its inception in Indonesia?

A: In 2010, I enthusiastically took on the role of Country Coordinator for Generation Global in Indonesia. The programme resonated with me because it aligned perfectly with the new school curriculum’s emphasis on character education. Partnering with UNESCO, we reached out to English and IT teachers, emphasising dialogue skills and introducing video conferencing tools. Our focus on English teachers was strategic, hoping they would integrate dialogue skills into their lesson plans or use them for additional student practice. Simultaneously, involving IT teachers was crucial, given that video conferencing was a novel experience for many educators at that time.

Our collaboration with Indonesian National Commission for UNESCO, hosted by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology, persisted over the years, bringing in more schools. As time went on, we also collaborated with the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) to introduce the programme to hundreds of madrasahs (Islamic schools under MoRA) across the archipelago.

Teachers shared that their students became more confident, articulate, and expressive through participation in dialogues with peers. They found the process to be a fun and interactive way for students to learn and share experiences. When the pandemic struck and teaching moved online, Generation Global adapted swiftly, providing access to the Ultimate Dialogue Adventure, which also included video conferences that students could join either at school or individually from home. This proved invaluable as many teachers struggled with the sudden shift to online learning. Those active in Generation Global found the transition smoother and more manageable.

Q: Reflecting on a decade of facilitating dialogues, could you share moments that stand out as impactful for students or yourself?

A: One of the most rewarding aspects has been witnessing students leave behind surface-level discussions, to explore issues of personal significance in their interactions.

In a memorable instance, a student in a video conference asked about the reason for the head covering worn by another student. Upon learning it represented a religious practice, the inquiring student shared that in their own country, individuals from various faiths also wear head coverings to visit sacred places. This sparked a collective realisation among the students, highlighting similarities and differences in their customs and practices, despite their different faiths and backgrounds. The dialogue progressed with another student asking if anyone could think of other examples of similar customs with different meanings in their cultures. This showcased the students’ skills in sharing and asking questions, active listening, critical thinking, and reflection through their cultural lens.

Q: Have you observed instances where attitudes or perspectives shifted during or after a dialogue session?

A: Indeed! Sometimes, the transformative shifts in students’ perspectives may not be immediately evident during the 60-min online interactions, but reflections often unveil these meaningful changes. Students who engage more deeply tend to acknowledge and appreciate differences, rather than simply uncover similarities. For example, the question about the head covering worn by a student in a video conference led to a rich exchange about religious practices and cultural differences.

Another instance I remember is when a student reflected on their uniqueness after a dialogue on diversity within their own country. These instances underscore students’ ability to practice the core skills of dialogue and their use to learn from one another. My experience has been enriched by countless instances like these, reflecting the students’ curiosity, eagerness to learn, and their remarkable capacity to build meaningful connections – not just in Indonesia but around the world.

Q: Every journey has challenges. Can you share a challenging situation you encountered as a facilitator and how you navigated it?

A: Challenges are an inherent part of any journey. One of them is preparing students for dialogue in video conferences, I suspect that it might be due to teachers’ already busy schedule amongst other things. It is essential for students to have prior knowledge about the topic to actively participate and be ready to learn from different perspectives. Equally important is cultivating an atmosphere of respect, to foster a safe environment for open dialogue.

I have also observed that language barriers can present challenges to some students, due to the fact that students participating in a video conference have varying degree of English proficiency. As a facilitator, I am aware of this when facilitating so that I can make certain accommodation to help students with limited English ability get the most out of their participation in the video conference. Teachers also play a pivotal role in overcoming these challenges. They help students review the topic, practise dialogue skills with agenda questions, and reinforce dialogue etiquette. Additionally, they provide support during the video conference by encouraging students to speak up and helping with translation if needed.

In resolving these challenges faced by students, as a facilitator I have worked with teachers to provide them feedback on how video conferences run in the form of facilitator’s reflections.

Q: What attributes or skills do you believe make a facilitator effective in fostering meaningful and inclusive dialogues?

A: Facilitating dialogue is a nuanced task that requires a diverse set of skills. It is paramount to create a safe environment where all students can openly share and be heard, regardless of their background and language abilities.

Every time I open Zoom and see different faces from various countries gathered in one place, I feel excited. I am responsible for providing them with a safe and comfortable space, free from fear to speak, share experiences, express opinions, get to know each other, and learn from others. I witness a sense of equality. They are equal, regardless of their background.

Ultimately, a facilitator must remain fully engaged and attentive during the dialogue. Maintaining this level of presence comes with time and experience.

Q: Looking ahead, what aspirations do you have for the impact of global dialogue on students and educators?

A: My aspiration is for more and more students to participate in the programme, fostering respect and appreciation for diversity. In today’s polarised world, programmes promoting tolerance become increasingly crucial. Generation Global creates a safe and inclusive space for young people to develop positive attitudes and skills to navigate this ever-changing world. I hope the programme inspires students to embrace diversity, not only on a global scale but also within Indonesia’s rich cultural contexts.

With learners and educators from over 5,000 schools in more than 100 countries engaging with the Ultimate Dialogue Adventure and Teacher Portal, our resources are designed to fit a wide range of educational settings. From public schools nestled in bustling cities to remote village classrooms, from private educational establishments to after-school and language-learning clubs, this diversity underscores our belief that every young learner deserves the chance to become an active global citizen, regardless of their learning environment.

Educators in varied settings find unique ways to leverage Generation Global’s resources, showing how flexible the programme can be.

Integration in the curriculum

Institutions like Tecnologico de Monterrey in Mexico have seamlessly integrated Generation Global into their curriculum, embedding our interactive topics within their Multicultural programme. This not only enriches their educational offering but also equips their students with critical global citizenship skills through participation in our video conferences.

In Indonesia, Generation Global can easily be integrated with the national curriculum through the Pancasila Student Profile. The Student Profile encompasses six main dimensions such as Global Diversity, Collaboration, and Critical Reasoning, each fostering key skills, attitudes, and values. Generation Global’s 5 core skills of dialogue align nicely with the Student Profile. An example of this integration is MTsN 1 Kota Malang, a school in East Java, which has been using Generation Global for both intra- as well as extracurricular activities.

At the same time, we see many schools using Generation Global in different ways: the flexibility of the programme allows each educational setting to personalise the experience, handpicking features that are most relevant to their learning objectives.

Offline engagement

For example, Wilson, an educator from Ghana, uses our offline materials - including the Essentials of Dialogue and Difficult Dialogue - to teach the skills of dialogue and conflict resolution to his learners.

In India, Creative Learning Centres (CLCs) affiliated with partner organisations from Children Believe India are using Generation Global to support learners in rural areas to develop important skills for work and life. These CLCs serve as after-school hubs and use innovative teaching methods to facilitate the learning of STEM subjects. The Centres leverage Generation Global’s offline resources to engage students in skill-building activities and volunteer facilitators guide children to hone their dialogue skills through participation in video conferences, enriching their overall learning journey.

Generation Global Clubs

In many schools around the world, Generation Global Clubs are becoming an integral part of school activities, offering learners a valuable opportunity to learn and practise dialogue skills and learn from peers from different countries. Alongside teaching global citizenship, these clubs foster student leadership through committee roles like President and Secretary, as seen in GEMS Our Own English High School Boys, UAE.

Schools like Gurukul the School in India actively involve parents to deepen understanding of the programme’s advantages and ensure a multi-stakeholder approach to the implementation.

Meanwhile, Sarabjit, an educator in Australia, leverages the Ultimate Dialogue Adventure and video conferences to provide a unique learning opportunity among students from varied backgrounds joining a Diversity Homework Club.

More ways to participate

The Ultimate Dialogue Adventure, Generation Global’s platform for young people, serves as more than just an academic tool; it’s a bridge to essential life skills. Several educators in Ukraine initially turned to Generation Global to enhance their students’ English proficiency. However, they quickly discovered the added value of nurturing global citizenship skills, underscoring the programme’s effectiveness and benefit.

Our pilot programme in Kigali, Rwanda, involving a mix of public and private schools, illustrates our commitment to overcoming barriers and extending our reach. Despite challenges with internet access and technology, the enthusiasm from students participating in video conferences with global peers, highlighted the transformative power of using dialogue to engage with learners from other countries, proving the uniqueness and effectiveness of our programme in bridging worlds.

Join us!

These examples highlight Generation Global’s adaptability and its aim to reach as many learners as possible. Whether integrating into a formal curriculum or complementing non-formal educational settings, our resources and tools are designed to meet educators’ and learners’ diverse needs and objectives. This inherent flexibility ensures that our programme remains relevant, engaging, and effective in various educational landscapes.

Generation Global’s journey since 2009 is a testament to the power of inclusive education in building bridges between diverse communities. By fostering understanding and dialogue among the world’s youth, we are preparing a new generation for a future where global citizenship skills are just an advantage, but a necessity.

We invite educators and institutions from all educational backgrounds to explore the transformative potential of Generation Global. Join us in our mission to empower young people worldwide with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to thrive in a globalised world.

Welcome to our first newsletter of 2024!

This edition is all about celebrating the fantastic ways our educators are bringing the programme to life in their classrooms, equipping learners with essential 21st-century skills. Be sure to check out the Generation Global Clubs in Action and the impact of a trailblazing teacher from Indonesia, along with her unique approach, in the blog below.

In line with our commitment to providing young voices a stage, we hosted our annual events – the SDG Dialogue Series and #MyFreedomDay dialogues. Yes, we went big, celebrating international days and delving into Sustainable Development Goals!

Hold onto your hats because we are rolling out the red carpet for the Educator Awards! Let’s give a big round of applause for 38 outstanding educators rocking global citizenship education in their classrooms.

And of course, a big shout-out to our partners – British Council, International Baccalaureate (IB), World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh (WACP), FREEST – for championing our cause and helping us spread the magic of dialogue.

Get ready for an adventure in every scroll! Happy Reading!

Best wishes,

The Generation Global Team

Introducing Our Award-Winning Educators

The Generation Global Educator Awards celebrate the impactful role of dialogue in education, honouring 38 outstanding educators worldwide across gold, silver, and bronze categories. These dedicated individuals inspire the next generation of global citizens, equipping them with essential skills for our interconnected world.

Congratulations to our award recipients! Discover more about these inspirational educators here.

UN SDGs on the Table

We organised the SDG Dialogue Series for learners to gain knowledge and engage in dialogue on four select United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), namely SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 13: Climate Action, and SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions   

Throughout January and February, 1400+ young people from more than 22 countries shared their personal experiences through live video conferences. Even though the series has concluded, you can still access all the teaching resources we developed for teaching SDGs in your classroom here.

Our Dialogue Course Takes Center Stage

Generation Global proudly announces that our transformative ‘Introduction to Dialogue’ Course is now available on the British Council website. Engaging over 480 educators globally, from Pakistan and Uzbekistan to Myanmar and Bangladesh, this course is reshaping classrooms and empowering students.  

One educator from Russia shared, “I gained knowledge about various skill types, their characteristics, and the concepts of safe and brave spaces. Additionally, I acquired skills in utilising the Generation Global platform for guiding students in dialogues.” If you are interested in this course or know someone who could benefit, feel free to share this link with them for sign-up, and they can take it for free. 

Youth Worldwide Unite Against Human Trafficking 

Teaming up with FREEST, we marked #MyFreedomDay in March through a series of international youth dialogues dedicated to raising awareness and fostering understanding of human trafficking and slavery.  

The dialogues were attended by more than 300 young people from about 25 countries. If you are an educator or facilitator interested in introducing this topic to young people in your learning community, download our free resources here.

Generation Global Clubs in Action

From India to Indonesia and across the Middle East, educators and youth are elevating the Generation Global programme through innovative clubs. We connected with some of them to learn about their exciting initiatives and best practices.

Explore our blog to uncover their inspiring ideas—you might find the inspiration to start your own club at your school. Read here.

Generation Global X World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh

Generation Global joined forces with the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh (WACP) for engaging virtual dialogues. Youth aged 13-17 explored the intersections of Climate Action, Women and Girls, and Global Migration. Over 50 young minds from 10 countries actively participated over three days, sparking insightful conversations on these critical topics.  

Some of the highlights from these thought-provoking dialogues among youth from Rwanda, India, and Ukraine included: Global Impact of Climate Change, Rwandan Perspective on Tidal Waves and livelihood, Indian Challenges in Seasonal Employment, Ukrainian Climate and Conflict Connection. 

Generation Global Resources to Support IB Teaching

In partnership with theInternational Baccalaureate (IB), Generation Global hosted a special webinar for IB educators. The session introduced Generation Global’s library of dialogue skills-building activities, offering practical examples for creating dialogic classrooms. Educators gained insights into teaching core dialogue skills across academic subject areas, accessible on the IB Exchange platform.

Watch the recording here if you missed the event. 

Nurturing Global Citizens in Indonesia

Meet Ibu Dyah Khomsiyati, a dedicated teacher at MTsN 1 Kota Malang, Indonesia, who is leading transformative change in her classroom. Through Generation Global, she’s empowering her students with essential 21st-century skills and nurturing them to become engaged global citizens.

Dive into her inspiring journey and learn about her unique take here.

Generation Global at World Education Summit

In March, Lucy Hayter, Director of Generation Global, participated in the World Education Summit. The focus was on “Dialogue Skills: For Communicating with the World,” aiming to uncover essential dialogue elements, identify key skills, and discuss methods for integrating dialogue into educational communities.

Global Opportunity for Young Innovators

Ellison Institute of Technology (EIT), backed by Larry Ellison, introduces the Ellison Scholars Programme. This fully funded scholarship at the University of Oxford offers aspiring tech innovators the chance to address global challenges. Scholars engage in interdisciplinary projects, focusing on medical science, food security, clean energy, and government policy.

Spread the word to young individuals interested in this opportunity. Learn more here.

Generation Global Featured in UNESCO Global Education Coalition Annual Report
We are thrilled to share that the Generation Global programme has been featured in the UNESCO Global Education Coalition’s annual report for its impact in promoting global citizenship and fostering dialogue skills among young people globally.

The report highlights the Coalition’s fourth year of collaborative efforts, working towards inclusive and equitable education for all. Read the full report here.

“In the Generation Global video conference, I could utilise academic knowledge to ask questions related to global issues and learn about information that has genuinely sparked curiosity in me. It also influences my beliefs about certain countries. For example, in the dialogue on Rights and Inequalities, I asked about the Indian sati cultural practice and found out that this practice has long been stopped since the 1800s.”

It is amazing that one is not confined just to the UAE, but the programme allows you to spread your wings to the other parts of the world as well.”

Daphne, Learner
Taiwan

“As I train my students to sit in dialogue in a Generation Global platform, it helps me to understand that our world is beset with challenges and these young minds are capable to talk and tackle any issue that they may face in their community. Generation Global is a platform that allows the students to realise that inspite of class, culture, race, colour differences, they are a part of one community.”

Usaila Allam, Educator
Bangladesh

Meet the recipient of the Educator Awards in the gold, silver, and bronze category. They are shining examples of our community who are committed to global citizenship education and preparing the next generation of global citizens. Hover over the photo of the gold winners to find out more about the recipients and their school.

Nishat Parveen

City Montessori School, Jopling Road Campus, Lucknow

India

From their learner:

"Generation Global by far has been one of the best programs that I've taken part in. It has given me the suitable platform where I can put my skills and best attributes to the best use. I can learn about new issues and topics and become a global citizen and discuss them with peers all around the world. How amazing !. Since I've joined this platform I've been able to attain so much new information and gain skills like public speaking, respecting others' point of view and critical thinking. These skills can help me further on in my life and this has enabled me to explore my capabilities and recognize my limitations. Hats off to the Generation global team for this amazing platform!!"

From their colleague:

"The issues were incorporated in classroom teaching wherein we not only discussed these issues but made relevant connections to the topics being taught in the class. For example the role of social media during the freedom struggle and now. How is social media impacting the Government, economy and common man? The greatest thing they have learnt through these dialogues is the belief they have the power to change themselves and the world thereby taking ownership after endeavors and volunteering to other commitments more readily. We see that this has empowered the students by developing the listening and communicating skills while helping them practice empathy and understanding opinions of others. Integrating the Sustainable Development Goals with the chapters of Geography, have enabled the students to think more deeply every time they learn about a new region. The dialogue and the resources given have helped the students develop a larger perspective and given them a deeper insight into the concerned chapters."

Kavita Sanghvi

SVKM's CNM School

India

From their learner:

"Generation Global is a wonderful platform for the youth to interact and attempt to solve the major global issues which need to be dealt with. It is a great opportunity for the whole school community as well as for the young minds to unlock their thinking caps. It is also a chance for us students to interact with other students to broaden the horizon of our knowledge along with bringing a positive change in the world. I express my deep gratitude towards the Generation Global authorities to facilitate this and provide us with this amazing opportunity."

From their colleague:

"Dialogue is a very important tool in teaching as it converts boring, dry topics to interesting and interactive topics. It involves using language to explore and build on ideas, challenge and question assumptions, and develops critical thinking and communication skills in peers."

Shikha Thakur

Bal Bharati Public School, Rohini, New Delhi

India

From their learner:

"Generation Global provided me a platform to share my perspectives and ideas, foster camaraderie, celebrate diversity, and respect each other's perspective and ideas. It has helped me become a global citizen by providing me a chance to interact with people of different countries, cultures and beliefs. I started to see myself as a citizen of world rather than a single country."

From their colleague:

"Through partnerships with Generation Global we aim to broaden our students’ horizons and expose them to different worldviews. We believe that these experiences will not only enrich their lives but also equip them with the skills and mindset to address the global challenges we face. Generation Global Program offers a rich library of digital resources equipped with engaging activities for students to foster their Critical Thinking Skills. These resources have helped the students develop the skills and knowledge needed to engage with global issues. It has resulted not only in enhanced cultural awareness but has empowered the students with the knowledge, skill, and attitudes they need to engage in constructive dialogue and collaboration across cultural and religious boundaries."

Shipra Singhal

City Montessori School, Mahanagar, Lucknow

India

From their learner:

"Dialogue gives us the power to appreciate the world, collaborate when dealing with global issues and build meaningful relationships with the people around you. I feel that it is great chance at this age of life, to interact with my global peers and enhance my communicational skills. Only with a few sessions I have noticed many changes in my own personality, I do not hesitate anymore to speak, I am confident for my speech and have become much more social."

From their colleague:

"Generation Global equips them with the skills, knowledge and attitude required to achieve the afore mentioned goal. It helps the child to put forth its views liberally in an environment where no one is judgmental of their individual and progressive ideas. It acts as a catalyst for the Junior Youth to embark upon their journey of self-realization as zestful and committed agents. The conferences held regularly have enhanced the vocabulary, eloquence, critical thinking and communication skills of our students. They find they have lost their fear of public speaking and are able to put forth their views confidently."

Rachna Jain

Pragyan School

India

From their learner:

"I recently participated in a video conference on Hate Speech, organized by Generation Global. It was a very enlightening and engaging experience, as I got to interact with students from different schools across India. We discussed what hate speech is, how it affects our society and culture, and what we can do to prevent and counter it. I learned a lot from the perspectives and opinions of my peers, and I also shared my own thoughts and experiences."

From their colleague:

"My experience with Generation Global has been so enlightening that the school has 186 students registered so far along with four more teachers. Generation Global has helped in bringing in international dimensions in the classrooms. It has a ready reckoner for all the topics which not only helps in preparation but also helps in learning beyond the books... Generation Global not only offers a platform for interaction but also helps in preparing better global citizens. It makes the students more active listeners and understanding towards global issues."

Sana Malik

The Iconic School

India

From their learner:

"Generation Global has definitely helped me in learning the skills of dialogue as I have become a more patient listener and accepting and appreciating my peers' thoughts, personal experiences, and perspectives"

From their colleague:

"Generation Global aligns with the school’s mission where we believe and want students to connect globally and build up their confidence and eliminate hesitation in interacting with others. With the liberty to share their personal perspectives have made the students think creatively and made them eager to share their thoughts and perspectives with each other which make them eager and excited for every video conference."

Sheillie Chaudhary

GEMS Cambridge International Private School, Sharjah

United Arab Emirates

From their learner:

"The Generation Global student conference was a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy and effective communication in our interconnected world. I was amazed at how easily we could connect and relate to students from various countries and backgrounds, despite our differences. Through meaningful discussions and debates, I learned to appreciate the value of diverse perspectives and the need for collaborative problem-solving. This experience has left a lasting impact on me, motivating me to continue fostering cross-cultural understanding and working towards a more inclusive global community."

From their colleague:

"The utilization of Generation Global resources has significantly impacted my teaching practice by providing a platform for interactive and student-driven learning. Instead of traditional lectures, I've adopted a facilitator role, guiding students through discussions where they can critically analyze and reflect on global challenges. For example, during a unit on climate change, students utilized Generation Global resources to connect with peers from different parts of the world. This not only deepened their understanding of the global impact of climate change but also enhanced their communication and collaboration skills."

Sheelu Mathew

St. Mary's School, Dwarka

India

From their learner:

"This experience encouraged me to apply the principles of dialogue to my daily life. I became more aware of the significance of active listening, empathy, and respectful communication, even when discussing sensitive topics. Moreover, the conference highlighted how fake news and misinformation are not confined to one region but have a global reach. This realization motivated me to broaden my horizons and actively seek out diverse perspectives on social and political issues. I started following international news sources, participating in online discussions, and connecting with individuals from different parts of the world."

From their colleague:

"The impact of Generation Global on my teaching is profound. It has encouraged me to incorporate more global themes into my curriculum, making learning relevant and meaningful. My students have become more aware, compassionate, and confident citizens, eager to address pressing issues. Their enhanced communication and critical thinking skills are evident in their everyday interactions, as they now strive for solutions and advocate for positive change."

Suruchi Gandhi

Bal Bharati Public School, Dwarka, New Delhi

India

From their learner:

"Having such an amazing opportunity to talk to people from every corner of the world, engaging in a dialogue, learning about different cultures and traditions plays a great role to be a Global citizen. Through these conferences we gain so much knowledge about what is really going around us. Hearing Other’s perception, discussing issues and finding similarities in problems we all are facing connects us. Generation Global prepares us to really understand how important it is to reach out and find solutions on our own. Because Communication is the Best Solution."

From their colleague:

"Generation Global resources have helped our students to explore topics related to civic responsibility, democracy, and global citizenship. They have encouraged students to take action on global issues they are passionate about. We have also undertaken special projects wherein we incorporate Generation Global dialogue into research projects or presentations on global topics. The school organizes parent-teacher dialogue or community discussions on global issues to involve the broader school community. It encourages parents to participate in dialogues to promote cross-generational understanding. The school also offers professional development sessions for teachers to learn how to effectively facilitate Generation Global dialogue which is used to foster teacher collaboration on global education initiatives. They are also taught conflict resolution skills using Generation Global resources to create a more harmonious school environment. For instance: they address bullying or interpersonal conflicts through structured dialogues."

Chhavi Sabikhi

Gurukul The School

India

From their learner:

"On a personal note, before engaging in this platform, I used to speak very quickly, which would create a boundary of miscommunication as many people with whom I used to talk could not understand me well. However, after attending many VCs and using the skills of dialogue, I have learnt to be a better speaker, by speaking slower and more clearly so that I can express myself properly in front of others and understand their feelings as well. Understanding the feelings of my friends, when they share their perspectives, is only possible because I’ve given them a safe space to pour their hearts out to, which was in retrospect possible because Generation Global gave me the safe platform in the very beginning."

From their colleague:

"Thanks to the transformative resources and engaging dialogues fostered by Generation Global, I've undergone a profound shift in my openness to diverse ideas and perspectives. No longer confined within the boundaries of comfort, students embark on voyages to explore the world, confidently expressing their viewpoints while respecting the rich tapestry of ideas woven by others. Our classrooms buzz with discussions that draw real-life examples from daily lives, unravelling the threads of topics like Hate Speech Online, wealth disparities and Global Citizenship."

Dr. G. Nagashree

Met Rishikul Vidyalaya

India

From their learner:

"I was allotted the topic of rights and inequality by my teacher where I learnt about key differences around the world. This made me more aware about how we can all benefit from one another’s experience. We also promptly answered questions that were asked to us on the same; such as income inequality, and how to prevent it. Not only did I learn to participate actively through dialogue, but I also learnt the importance of listening and understanding the perspectives of others. Additionally, I engaged in critical thinking and reflection too! These were the key-skills I developed and practiced throughout the course."

From their colleague:

"Resources available from GG have been extremely useful to incorporate for the benefit of our learners and faculty. These align beautifully with the Cambridge International qualifications offered by us. Subjects like Global Perspectives, Economics, Business, Languages, Sciences, Mathematics, English Language and Literature, Information Technology and Communication, Computer Science and more under Cambridge curricula have similar approach and expectations as those of GG. Our leaners and faculty were able to make quick and suitable connections with these resources and benefits while participating in video conferences."

Divya Rajgarhia

GEMS Modern Academy

United Arab Emirates

From their learner:

"I have attended online global conferences through a platform called generation global. I got to communicate with various students from all over the world like India, USA, China, Mexico, Indonesia, Taiwan and many more countries. I learnt various skills like how to communicate effectively across different cultures by sharing personal stories, values, and perspectives and respecting or challenging views of others. I improved my active listening skills to show empathy to my global peers on knowing their life stories and things happening around them in their country especially Ukraine and I improved my critical thinking skills"

From their colleague:

"The resources have enabled me to create a safe space for students where they can express themselves without any hesitation and at the same time be mindful of the expected protocols of showing respect to their peers. Global conversations, active listening, critical thinking and reflections have taken the TOK classes to a different level. As a relatively new teacher of the IB curriculum, the resources and experiences with Generation Global equipped me with a unique skillset of adapting with ease to the inquiry-based approach of the IBDP. I was able to guide the students to be brave risk – takers, good communicators and thinkers making them question ‘how do they know, what they know’ while teaching about concepts like knowledge and the knower in my TOK classes."