Future Leaders in Sustainability

Sustainability, an interdisciplinary concept, emphasizes "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs" (Brundtland, 1987). International declarations like the Tbilisi Declaration (1987) and the Sustainable Development Goals (2015) have championed educational reform to address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, biodiversity loss, and climate change. However, despite these calls for transformative education toward sustainability, and the devastating impacts of climate change, progress has been slow. The summer of 2021 brought a series of extreme events, including record-high temperatures, heat waves, wildfires and flash floods in China, Germany, and the Northeastern United States. These events have highlighted the urgent need for Climate Change Education (CCE) and fueled a global youth movement for climate justice, with actions like School Strike for Climate and Fridays for Future.

What does this all mean, and what actions are countries and education systems taking? How are changes being implemented to ensure more sustainable ways of living for future generations?

This summer program is designed to equip high school students with knowledge and skills to lead sustainability initiatives. Students will develop an understanding of the global architecture of sustainability (international organizations and groups), analyze relevant education policies and practices, and envision new sustainable ways of living. Participants will join a supportive Teachers College community, learning from and networking with expert instructors.

Our curriculum includes real-time discussions, hands-on activities, and project-based learning, offering an introduction to real-world research, ideas, and solutions. The comprehensive course design includes introduction to sustainability, leadership developing, college counseling and preparation. This program is endorsed and supported by the Center for Sustainable Futures, the Adult Learning and Leadership Program, and the Coaching Club.