This School Collaboration inspired young people to use their youth power to promote the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through a character-building programme. The word “character” originates from Greek and means “chisel” or “the mark left by a chisel”. As Henry David Thoreau once said, “You cannot dream into a character; you must hammer and forge yourself one.”

This School Collaboration built up on the results of the first edition called “Rivers – Am Elixir of Life” and focused on the importance of rivers for socio-economic activity and biodiversity. Students also discussed the various programs implemented by governments and non-government actors to conserve rivers. Students realised how vulnerable rivers are and the duty they have to undertake responsibility to protect these immensely important ecosystems.

Students researched on waste management in their respective countries, analysed waste disposal habits of their schoolmates and suggested ways/solutions for school-wide improvement/ engagement. These actions carried out varied in forms such as class-wide/school-wide campaigns and videos to create awareness or an art installation using upcycled/recycled materials.

This School Collaboration created awareness among students to understand the hazardous nature of plastic products and their harmful effects on the human body. Using digital media and other online platforms, participants investigated measures that can reduce and control plastic pollution. The School Collaboration emphasised increased recycling capacity, strategies to minimise littering and considered the challenges of plastic waste management.

The School Collaboration increased the students’ knowledge on how different cultures take care of our pets, gardens and farms which include the usage of technology besides traditional and eco-friendly ways. The participants did research, collected information, painted and drew, as well as used ICT tools to create their dream garden

This School Collaboration created awareness among students and teachers on gender inequality and explored the channels available for female empowerment. The School Collaboration inspired students to appreciate key issues surrounding gender equality through online discussions with the help of ICT tools. They improved their communication skills, and gained insights into each other’s cultures.

The students discussed, and created awareness about the, life of people who live near rivers. They considered themes such as crops, river navigation, geopolitics and specific products traded.

Captured on a project website, sudents explored geographical, scientific and socio-economic aspects of Asian and European landscapes.

Asking local communities “what are you hungry for?”, students explored innovative and sustainable uses of scarce resources.

Considering local environmental challenges, students wrote personal eco-dictionaries and diaries, sharing best practices with peers.