Becoming Global Citizens through Science, Peace, and Tolerance

Two United Nations observances–the International Week of Science and Peace (November 9-15) and the International Day for Tolerance (November 16)–are celebrated each year to remind us of our collective duty to build a more peaceful, sustainable, and inclusive world. These observances align with IVECA’s mission to nurture interculturally competent global citizens who understand that their perspectives and actions influence global communities far beyond their immediate surroundings. By exploring science, strengthening communication skills and practicing mutual respect, IVECA students learn to collaborate despite their differences and contribute to a world where diverse cultures and knowledge systems coexist to benefit us all.

The International Week of Science and Peace promotes the idea that scientific progress and peace are deeply connected. Recognized by the UN General Assembly to highlight the role of science in solving global challenges, it encourages harmonious cooperation across borders through research and innovation. This year’s theme, “Trust, Transformation and Tomorrow: The Science We Need for Tomorrow” emphasizes how shared understanding is key to building a sustainable future. IVECA strives towards this goal with creative, engaging curricula that explore the many scientific dimensions of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). From studying clean energy and local efforts in pollution control to observing the use of natural resources and impacts on animal life, students connect scientific inquiry with social responsibility to embrace their roles in achieving global peace.

The International Day for Tolerance calls for respect, empathy, and appreciation of diversity. First observed in 1996 following its declaration by UNESCO, the day reminds us of the dangers of intolerance and that true tolerance means actively engaging with difference. It affirms that peace depends on inclusion and understanding–a recognition that is essential for our peaceful coexistence. IVECA encourages students to reflect on how open-minded communication helps build trust and strengthen global connections. Students build intercultural relationships from the ground up through their virtual exchanges, overcoming their cultural and linguistic barriers. By sharing cultural performances and traditions, exchanging ideas and insights on global issues, and connecting over shared interests, students build lasting friendships and develop genuine tolerance by finding common ground while appreciating their differences.

Every November, these observances underscore that both science and tolerance are vital in our pursuit of peace. Scientific advancements both demand and inspire cooperation through innovation and inquiry, while tolerance sustains those relationships with respect and empathy. When students engage in learning that values these strengths, they practice the essence of global citizenship by thinking critically, communicating effectively across cultures, and acting with integrity to help create a more inclusive and sustainable world.

#GCED #GlobalCitizenship #IVECA #Tolerance #ScienceandPeace #SDGs #Sustainability #Peace #EducationforAll

IVECA Launches the 2025 Global Youth Mentorship Program

On Monday, November 3, 2025, IVECA welcomed youth mentors to  the 2025 Global Youth Mentorship Program (iGYMP) through an engaging online orientation. The orientation session connected U.S. university student mentors from diverse backgrounds to begin an inspiring seven-week journey centered on “Inclusive STEAM Solutions for Global Impact.”

The session was filled with energy as mentors met the IVECA team and were introduced to IVECA’s vision of nurturing interculturally competent global citizens who work together for peace and sustainable development. They learned how their participation would open doors for meaningful collaboration with high school students from South Korea and India. The session guided mentors through the program’s flow and expectations. From friendly exchanges of self-introductions and perspectives to project presentations,  the mentors will serve as role models, providing constructive feedback to inspire and motivate students and fostering a shared celebration of learning and cultural understanding.

Under the STEAM umbrella, they will explore creative ways to address global challenges connected to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 6, 7, 9, 11, and 17. The focus is not just on solving problems, but on doing so through imagination, empathy, and collaboration, where science meets art, and technology meets compassion. Over the coming weeks, mentors and students will collaborate to design inclusive STEAM projects that reflect both creativity and compassion. Their ideas, shaped through teamwork and dialogue, may even reach the United Nations stage, where young voices continue to inspire solutions for global challenges.

The session highlighted that the mentors’ role goes far beyond guiding; it is about inspiring, connecting, and learning together. Dr. Eunhee Jung shared that global citizenship begins with a sense of belonging to an interconnected global community. This awareness nurtures empathy toward others by recognizing our shared challenges while also valuing each person’s unique perspective and contribution. Through iGYMP, mentors and students are invited to see the world not as separate nations, but as one diverse community working toward a better tomorrow. Each exchange between mentors and mentees will become an opportunity to listen, to understand, and to co-create ideas that can make a real difference in local communities, building our global future.  

Reflecting the shared excitement of things to come, one mentor aptly expressed their anticipation saying, “I’m excited to begin this journey with you all, experiencing other cultures and broadening my perspective. I’m very excited to learn from you all and the students, too.” The 2025 Global Youth Mentorship Program sets in motion another memorable chapter in IVECA’s mission, reminding us that when young minds and open hearts meet across cultures, learning becomes transformation, and every step taken together becomes a step toward a more peaceful and sustainable world.

#IVECA #GlobalCitizenship #InterculturalLearning #VirtualExchange #SDGs #iGYMP #YouthEmpowerment #CulturalExchange #GCED #Mentorship

Learning to Lead Sustainably: Global Classrooms in Action

Across continents and cultures, students in IVECA’s international classrooms are diving into this semester’s projects with one shared purpose: to imagine a better future for their communities and the world. From sustainable cities and thriving oceans to inclusive societies and creative environmental solutions, each class is exploring how small actions can inspire global impact.

Through every project, students are discovering how local realities connect to shared global challenges. In Cameroon, China, Mexico, Korea, and Singapore, high school students are stepping into the role of city planners, envisioning greener, more livable communities. Others in the United States and Korea are critically investigating the delicate relationship between oceans and life on Earth, learning how every drop of water connects ecosystems and people across the planet. Meanwhile, Mexican and Korean students are exploring global partnerships for sustainability, reflecting on how cooperation between nations and between young people fuels real change.

Middle school students have also joined this mission in creative ways. Students from Korea and Singapore are becoming eco-travel ambassadors, highlighting the beauty of natural landscapes and the importance of responsible tourism. In Colombia and Korea, learners are turning green ideas into action, designing local projects that link environmental challenges to culture, art, and daily life. Young participants from India and the U.S. are crafting Youth Manifestos for Change, advocating for more inclusive, sustainable cities led by their generation.

Even elementary students are contributing to this global conversation. Through storytelling, classes in Colombia and the U.S. are following the journey of water, blending science and imagination to understand how this essential resource connects people everywhere. One teacher shared, “I believe these topics will give knowledge and inspire students on how to create a sustainable future in our city.”

Such reflections highlight what makes these activities meaningful. Each project, whether through research or creativity, invites students to see themselves as active participants in shaping a better world. Guided by empathy, curiosity, and cooperation, they are not only learning about sustainability, they are practicing it through dialogue and creativity.

These explorations capture the essence of IVECA’s mission: empowering learners to think critically, act compassionately, and collaborate across borders to build a sustainable future. Whether designing new cities, protecting oceans, or reimagining societies, students are discovering that change begins with awareness and grows through connection.

#IVECA #GlobalCitizenship #SustainabilityEducation #YouthForChange #ConnectingClassrooms #SDGsInAction