Amidst global challenges, there is an increased recognition of the need for mutually supportive relationships, at all levels, that recognise the interconnectedness and interdependence of people and planet. In the final breakout sessions during Day 3, we will discuss how to sustain those connections despite myriad challenges. We expect delegates to draw inspiration from recognising that transformative change can happen in different ways.

In this Pecha-Kucha Session (which means ‘chit-chat’ in Japanese), speakers will present their ideas in a concise and visually dynamic format, which will then be unpacked during group discussion.

Moderator: Inge Boudewijn (Centre for Global Development, Northumbria University)

• Speaker Roxanne Boivin (Éducation internationale - Programme CLÉ)
• Title: "Volunteering for transformative education: a pathway to inclusive and peaceful societies"

Research shows that limited access to education and employment not only perpetuates poverty within communities, but also exacerbates violence, conflict and socio-economic crises. In many countries, particularly in Africa, both youth and women are too often excluded from such opportunities, helping to fuel crises around the world. By incorporating work-based and essential social, emotional and cognitive skills learning into its programmes, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) aims to facilitate the transition to employment, thus providing a pathway to social cohesion, employment and peaceful communities. TVET in Africa still faces several challenges, such as low public funding, low enrolment, and gender inequality. The CLÉ programme, a Canadian volunteer cooperation programme, focuses on strengthening education systems in six African countries, with the belief that this can improve the economic well-being of girls, women and vulnerable populations and lead to more peaceful societies. After four years, the programme has implemented successful practices with its 50+ partners and impacted over 50,000 beneficiaries, particularly through initiatives focused on TVET and entrepreneurship. During this session, participants will be invited to discuss how volunteering to strengthen TVET programmes contributes to the development of sustainable and prosperous societies.

• Speaker: Seher Afsheen (VSO)
• Title: "The roles of youth volunteers in delivering education services to the most marginalised children affected by crises in Pakistan"

Pakistan has the second-largest population of out-of-school children (OOSC) globally, projected to rise from 22 million in 2017 to 26 million in 2023. Many children, especially girls, face barriers like long distances to schools, inadequate facilities, and restrictive social norms. With 64% of primary school children unable to read, Pakistan risks missing out on the benefits of an educated population. Since 2022, VSO, in partnership with four local organisations, has supported 32,000 marginalised children, including girls, refugees, and children with disabilities, by providing inclusive and quality education in safe environments. This presentation will highlight the role of Education Champions/Volunteers, 60% of whom are girls, in fostering solidarity for educational services. These volunteers lead Catch-Up Learning (CLP) and Early Childhood Education (ECE) centres, helping thousands return to school. Working with parents, schools, and communities, they promote civic values, social cohesion, and sustainable solutions to educational challenges, demonstrating the power of volunteerism in fragile contexts.

• Speakers: William Bougaire and Amy Nagus (Oxfam Québec)
• Title: "Resilience and innovation in feminist volunteering in times of crisis"

This presentation will discuss the experiences of Oxfam Québec volunteers working in crisis-affected countries, showcasing a unique approach to supporting civil society organisations. By prioritising inclusion, co-creation, and resource sharing, Oxfam Québec aims to create lasting change that contributes to poverty reduction in the Global South. The session will highlight how effective partnerships are built on mutual respect and co-creation, ensuring that local organisations play an active role in developing and implementing solutions. It will also explore how sustainable change is achieved by empowering local organisations through capacity building, enabling them to become self-sufficient and resilient in the face of ongoing challenges. Additionally, the speakers will emphasise the importance of Oxfam Québec’s feminist approach in addressing the root causes of poverty and driving impactful change in crisis-affected regions. Delegates will gain insights into these strategies and their effectiveness in fostering long-term development and resilience.

*Four different modalities of breakout sessions have been designed to amplify diverse voices and promote opportunities for delegates to share their experiences in engaging ways during IVCO 2024.
Click here to find out more about what to expect from each type of breakout session.