#Japan #Kusatsu #Pal System Gunma #SDGs Japan #Sustainable Education

Engaging Students in Sustainable Development Goals

On October 7, 2023, Kusatsu Elementary School in Gunma Prefecture is set to host a special class dedicated to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), organized by the Pal System Gunma cooperative. This initiative offers a platform for young minds to explore and recognize global challenges, focusing on how every individual can make a difference in their everyday lives.

Under the guidance of experienced staff from Pal System Gunma, around 25 fourth-grade students will participate in an interactive learning experience. The session will cover the basics of the SDGs, showcasing the cooperative's commitment to sustainable production and consumption. By leveraging engaging group activities and quizzes, children will learn about sustainable shopping practices, Japan's consumption and waste issues, and the concept of 'mottainai'—which emphasizes the importance of minimizing waste and cherishing resources.

A variety of learning tools will be employed, including collaborative group work and special SDGs-themed karuta games that introduce real-world examples of sustainability. The goal is for students to grasp local and global issues connected to daily living, widening their understanding of environmental challenges in an engaging manner.

Since 2019, Pal System Gunma has been actively contributing to education around SDGs through its “SDGs School Action” initiative, responding to the needs of educational institutions and fostering local partnerships to shape future leaders. This project emphasizes the importance of instilling the values of the SDGs in youth, which is crucial for the development of a sustainable society. For this specific class, Pal System Gunma collaborates with the Kusatsu Town Welfare Association to effectively expand the students' understanding of SDGs values.

Event Details

• - Date: October 7, 2023
• - Time: 10:30 AM - 11:55 AM
• - Location: Kusatsu Town Kusatsu Elementary School, 4th-grade classroom, Gunma Prefecture
• - Target Audience: Approximately 25 fourth-grade students
• - Instructors: Staff from the SDGs Promotion Headquarters of Pal System Gunma
• - Partner: Kusatsu Town Welfare Association

Commitment to a Sustainable Future

Pal System Gunma remains dedicated to fostering a sustainable society where no one is left behind. As we move towards 2025, recognized as the International Year of Cooperatives, initiatives like these in schools are vital for empowering the next generation and enhancing their commitment to sustainability practices. The cooperative model not only provides resources for education but also instills a sense of responsibility towards achieving the SDGs locally and globally.

Through collaborative actions and engaging educational formats, the Pal System Gunma aims to nurture youthful leaders who understand the importance of sustainability and are motivated to enact positive change in their communities and beyond.