One of the many goals of the Social Studies Educators’ Network of Canada is to consult with potential partners in the advancement of social studies education and the development of resources for teachers. One such opportunity took place in May 2022 when SSENC Directors met with the Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC). As stated on its website, the “AKFC works with Canadian educators to deepen their understanding of global issues and empower them with practical tools and strategies to engage their students to become active global citizens.” The AKFC provides resources and professional development opportunities for teachers, including activities promoting global citizenship. Topics of interest for this consultation included sustainable development goals (SDGs), human rights, and global issues education in Canada.
The Aga Khan Foundation is developing educational materials for global citizenship in Canada. In their meetings with SSENC, AFKC staff were seeking to understand the state of global education in a pan-Canadian curriculum context. Directors were able to identify curriculum links in their respective provinces and territories and were able to lend some advice as the AFKC develops lessons and projects to enhance engagement of Canadian youth, specifically in its understanding of international development issues.
In a series of three online meetings, AFKC staff led SSENC Directors in discussions about their foundation, its goals, and its educational aspirations. Directors were able to listen and provide advice about best practices in educational programming in partnership with the Aga Khan Foundation of Canada.
by Ian Coffin from Prince Edward Island
