One of the Dutch grantees ‘Stichting Friendshifts aims to support young people through education – for example in Togo, Myanmar, and Jordan – while also promoting global citizenship. They believe that education is key to breaking the cycle of poverty and involving youth in finding global solutions. Today’s challenges require a cross-border and inclusive approach.
Friendshift supports educational projects ranging from providing school uniforms to constructing new school buildings – the latter made possible in partnership with Wilde Ganzen. In the area of global citizenship, we collaborate with partners through our Learning Together program, which enables young people from different countries to connect through both virtual and in-person exchanges. In this way, we build mutual understanding across borders.’
Why did you decide to apply for Connect for Global Change?
‘Connect for Global Change perfectly aligned with the goals of Friendshifts. Thanks to this grant, we were able to organise two project days for high school students in the Netherlands – and for young people in the Global South through our partners. One day focused on the theme of ‘belief systems and philosophy of life’, helping students gain more knowledge and tolerance toward people with different religious or spiritual backgrounds. The other day centred on ‘Sustainable Development Goals & Healthcare’, exploring why these issues matter to young people. What we really appreciated about Connect for Global Change is that it encouraged youth to take an active role in finding solutions.’
“It was fun to talk to a Muslim from Jordan. Now I understand more.”
What impact did these two days have?
‘The impact was immediately visible in the evaluations. Young people shared that they enjoyed learning that “Hindus can choose which specific god they worship’ or that ‘Humanism also emphasises children’s rights.” There was also great appreciation for the conversations with youth abroad: “It was fun to talk to a Muslim from Jordan. Now I understand more.” (pupil from the Twents Carmel College)
We’re very grateful for the opportunity and funding provided by Connect for Global Change to organise these activities. It’s a pity that organisations can only apply once – otherwise, we’d definitely join again!”
Wilde Ganzen is the national coordinator in Nederland of the EU-supported Connect for Global Change program.