FAMReports Opportunity Desk
The Global Schools Advocates Program is once again calling for passionate educators worldwide to apply for its 2025 cohort. The program, an initiative of the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), aims to equip primary and secondary school teachers with the skills, resources, and global connections needed to champion Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) in their classrooms and communities.
Applications are open until June 9, 2025, offering selected participants a prestigious opportunity to serve as Advocates from August 2025 to January 2026, with the possibility of extending their mandate.
This globally recognized program prepares teachers to integrate sustainable development goals (SDGs) into daily teaching practices. Through a self-paced 10–15 hour online training, participants are introduced to practical approaches for embedding sustainability principles into classroom activities, school programs, and community initiatives.
Once selected, Advocates receive a comprehensive ESD toolkit, including customizable lesson plans, workshop templates, and resource guides. These tools help educators adapt global SDG content to local school settings, making it accessible, engaging, and action-oriented for students.
Program Structure and Expectations
The Global Schools Advocates Program is carefully designed to provide both flexibility and impact. Advocates will:
1. Complete online training to build foundational knowledge of the SDGs and ESD frameworks.
2. Introduce ESD to their schools using ready-made presentations and workshops tailored to local education environments.
3. Lead classroom or community-based sustainability initiatives, using lesson plans and activity guides supplied in the toolkit.
4. Share their advocacy journey by documenting and communicating their experiences with fellow educators, students, parents, and local leaders.
Advocates are not expected to follow a set curriculum. Instead, they are encouraged to innovate and align their efforts with their school’s unique needs and cultural context.
Why Educators Should Apply
Participants in the Advocates Program receive:
Free expert-led training on sustainable development
Access to a global peer network of ESD-focused educators
A personalized mentorship experience for ongoing support
A 17-document implementation toolkit
Monthly virtual workshops and peer learning exchanges
Official certification upon program completion
Invitations to present at high-level events, including the ECOSOC Youth Forum, Vatican Youth Symposium, and the International Conference on Sustainable Development
The program’s peer-to-peer model promotes deep collaboration and learning. It’s not just about teaching ESD—it’s about transforming classrooms into change-making spaces that address global issues like climate change, inequality, and sustainable economic development.
Global Impact, Local Action
Since its inception, the Global Schools Advocates Program has reached educators in over 80 countries, sparking positive change at the grassroots level. Advocates from Kazakhstan, Cameroon, Nigeria, and beyond have reported improvements in student engagement, school culture, and community participation.
Educators say the training strengthened their ability to introduce complex global topics to young learners and inspired their schools to explore sustainability-focused projects, from environmental clubs to waste management campaigns.
Who Can Apply
The program is open to:
Primary and secondary school teachers or leaders from any country
Educators affiliated with programs like UN Volunteers, Fulbright, or Teach for All
English-proficient individuals able to participate in international workshops
Applicants willing to dedicate 5–10 hours per week to activities
No prior experience with the SDGs or ESD is required, though applicants must demonstrate a clear passion for education and sustainability.
A Platform for Recognition and Leadership
Beyond the classroom, the program positions educators as global changemakers. Those who excel may be invited to present at major international events or contribute to knowledge-sharing within the SDSN network. The opportunity helps teachers build their professional portfolio, expand their visibility, and inspire policy discussions around sustainability in education.
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How to Apply
Interested educators are encouraged to:
Submit their applications before June 9, 2025
Review the Terms of Reference, Training Syllabus, and FAQs
Explore past Advocate stories to understand real-world outcomes
The application process is straightforward, and all selected teachers will be guided every step of the way.
As the world continues to grapple with complex challenges, the Global Schools Advocates Program remains a powerful platform for educators who want to make a lasting difference—one classroom at a time.
To apply or learn more, visit the Global Schools official platform HERE or email for further information.
