Fortalecemos a la Comuna Tetuán, con la participación de jóvenes vulnerables, para facilitar su acceso a un empleo digno
En 2013 se inició una colaboración entre Fundació CODESPA Catalunya y el Ajuntament de Barcelona, en el contexto del Programa de Cooperación para la Justicia Global en Ciudades Específicas, con el fin de reforzar la gobernanza local de la Comuna de Tetuán. Para ello, los equipos de CODESPA y la Asociación ATIL, como socio local, han asistido técnicamente, en un proceso participativo, a los distintos actores que han intervenido: la División de Acción Social de la Comuna de Tetuán, Organizaciones de la Sociedad Civil (OSC) y jóvenes de los barrios más vulnerables de Tetuán. Con ello, se ha conseguido también impulsar la participación de estos jóvenes, en situación de exclusión social, en la política pública de su ciudad.
El último proyecto llevado a cabo dentro de esta colaboración, que se inició en diciembre de 2022 y ha finalizado en noviembre de 2024, se ha centrado en facilitar el acceso de los jóvenes a un empleo digno, a través de la promoción del diálogo, participación y concertación en el Municipio de Tetuán.
En esta iniciativa se han abordado directamente los desafíos del empleo juvenil en un contexto local marcado por una alta tasa de desempleo, con foco en los barrios periféricos de la ciudad, donde sus habitantes cuentan con escasos recursos e infraestructuras limitadas. Para ello, desde el principio, el proyecto se ha centrado en la colaboración intersectorial, reuniendo al municipio de Tetuán, actores públicos, OSC y el sector privado en torno a una visión común. Este enfoque concertado ha permitido:
Consolidar la consulta de una variedad de actores a través del diagnóstico inicial que movilizó a jóvenes de diversos orígenes (estudiantes de secundaria, NEET – Not in Education, Employment, or Training-, jóvenes en formación, miembros de asociaciones) y demás actores públicos y privados.
Fortalecer las capacidades de los funcionarios municipales que participaron activamente en el desarrollo y apropiación de metodologías de intervención, y que sentaron las bases para un sistema de orientación más efectivo y sostenible.
Establecer un modelo innovador de orientación profesional, adaptado a las necesidades locales y basado en una metodología inclusiva que involucre a todos los participantes.
Facilitar la planificación de actividades clave, como talleres de orientación profesional y capacitación adaptada a las necesidades de los jóvenes.
Esta intervención ha logrado, desde la formación, acompañamiento e impacto en cascada a 2 niveles. Por un lado, el refuerzo de las capacidades de la División Acción Social de la Comuna de Tetuán, desarrollando un servicio público de mediación y orientación laboral en sus oficinas de proximidad en los barrios de Tetuán. Por otro lado, que los jóvenes puedan acceder a dichos servicios y optar a un empleo digno y/o autoempleo.
Procesos participativos
El éxito de esta intervención se ha debido, en buena medida, a la metodología participativa que se ha seguido, fomentando la intervención de los distintos actores implicados, tanto de las instituciones públicas como de la ciudadanía, para identificar las necesidades y propuestas más adecuadas, su implementación y gestión posterior, haciéndolos propios.
Una selección de 572 jóvenes, 465 de ellos mujeres, que viven en los barrios periféricos de la ciudad y tienen un mayor riesgo de exclusión, han participado activamente en el diagnóstico, lo que ha permitido recoger sus opiniones sobre los desafíos y oportunidades relacionados con su empleabilidad. Para ello, se crearon grupos de discusión, grupos focales y entrevistas estructuradas para maximizar su participación. Estos espacios fomentaron una participación transparente, destacando soluciones adaptadas a las necesidades identificadas, logrando que los jóvenes puedan contar con un servicio público de orientación laboral y acceder a sus servicios de formación, para poder acceder a un empleo y/o autoempleo.
La formación y el apoyo a 27 funcionarios, 16 de ellos mujeres, de la División de Acción Social de la Comuna de Tetuán para diseñar y formalizar el servicio público para el empleo han jugado un rol clave. Su participación en talleres de capacitación interactivos y reuniones de consulta ayudó a fortalecer las capacidades institucionales y que se apropiaran de la metodología del sistema de orientación e integración profesional, para garantizar una integración fluida de los sistemas en las estructuras existentes.
30 jóvenes líderes de Organizaciones de la Sociedad Civil, de ellos 8 mujeres, han tenido también un papel clave en el desarrollo del modelo de servicios públicos para el empleo, aportando su perspectiva sobre las necesidades de los jóvenes y los recursos disponibles para su orientación e integración profesional. También contribuyeron a la creación de un mapeo detallado de los recursos locales y a la identificación de sinergias con otras iniciativas locales y regionales. Además, estos actores participaron en la realización de talleres de orientación colectiva organizados en bibliotecas locales.
Para establecer vínculos sólidos entre las diferentes partes interesadas se organizaron reuniones periódicas e intercambios técnicos. Estos mecanismos de coordinación han permitido asegurar una colaboración efectiva, optimizar la implicación de cada actor y maximizar los impactos de las acciones conjuntas, fortaleciendo así el ecosistema de gobernanza local y asegurando la sostenibilidad de los resultados obtenidos.
La Penya Blaugrana del Cercle Català de Madrid vol posar el seu granet de sorra per ajudar els damnificats per la DANA a València i per això ha organitzat una subhasta solidària per ajudar els afectats.
Quan tindrà lloc la subhasta?
30/11 o 01/12. Abans del partit Barça – UD Las Palmas , a la Sala Espriu del Cercle Català de Madrid.
Com funciona?
Subhastarem aquelles samarretes del Barça que doneu partint de 20€ la licitació.
Per poder licitar cal inscriure’s mitjançant un ingrés de 20€ al compte del Cercle: ES23-2100-2120-8702-0021-1293 (Posar en concepte “Subasta València”. En cas de ser adjudicatari de la subhasta, es descomptaran del total de la licitació, en cas contrari quedaran com a donatiu.
També pots participar a “Fila Zero” i fer el teu donatiu directament (sense licitació)
On deixar la teva samarreta?
– Deixa la teva samarreta al Cercle Català de 12 a 14h i de 17 a 20h
– Porta-la durant els partits del Barça a la Penya Blaugrana
– El mateix dia de la subhasta
Adreça: Seu del Cercle Català, a Plaça Espanya 6, planta 1. Madrid Com a mostra d´agraïment es regalaran 2 vals per a activitats de pagament del Cercle Català de Madrid.
Artistas de primera línea colaboran en la Exposición de arte solidario de Fundació CODESPA
Barcelona es una ciudad con un vibrante carácter cultural y artístico, a la vez que muy sensible a las causas sociales. En Fundació CODESPA, queremos unir ambos y hemos organizado una Exposición de arte solidario de la mano de reconocidos artistas locales, o vinculados a la ciudad condal. Todos ellos han querido colaborar de forma desinteresada para ayudarnos a conseguir nuestra misión de dar una oportunidad a personas en situación de vulnerabilidad y exclusión social.
En esta exposición colectiva de arte solidario contaremos con más de 20 artistas contemporáneos, entre los que se encuentran pintores, escultores y fotógrafos de primera línea. Todos ellos han donado alguna de sus obras, que se pondrán a la venta durante los tres días que durará la exposición. Entre los que ya han confirmado su participación se encuentran Alejandro Miras, David Ymbernon, Javier Mariscal, Jordi Bernadó, José Mª de Orbe, Koke Pursals, Max de Esteban, Naxo Farreras, Pere de Ribot, Regina Giménez, Regina Saura, Sabine Finekenbauer, Toni Camarasa, Víctor Pérez-Porro y Xavier Bartumeus.
La inauguración tendrá lugar el martes, 29 de octubre a las 19h en la galería LAB36, situada en la calle Trafalgar, 36, de Barcelona. Y se prolongará a lo largo del miércoles, 30 y jueves, 31 de octubre, en que la exposición permanecerá abierta de 16h a 19:30h. A lo largo de estos 3 días, los visitantes tendrán la oportunidad única de adquirir alguna de estas obras.
La discapacidad visual de Rosario no le ha impedido iniciar una actividad comercial de crianza de pollos.
Contamos contigo
Los fondos obtenidos mediante la venta de las obras expuestas será destinado a apoyar el proyectoEducación financiera y desarrollo de emprendimientos para personas con discapacidad, cuyo objetivo es que personas con algún tipo de discapacidad de comunidades rurales del departamento de Chiquimula, en Guatemala, puedan generar ingresos estables mediante la creación de emprendimientos y el acceso a crédito, de forma que puedan ser autosuficientes.
Desde aquí queremos agradecer la generosidad de todos los artistas que nos han donado una de sus creaciones para que puedan venderse en la exposición; y a Carlos Durán y Chus Roig, que nos hayan cedido el espacio de LAB36, así como su apoyo en la organización del mismo. La galería LAB 36 es un espacio dinámico, de exposición para el arte y para generar puntos de encuentro entre las diversas disciplinas presentes en la producción cultural de Barcelona; que refleja la actualidad y quiere dar visibilidad a la creación y a la creatividad.
Invitamos a los amantes del arte y a todos aquellas personas que deseen participar en esta celebración de la creatividad y la solidaridad. Juntos podemos marcar la diferencia. Porque, en CODESPA, creemos que hay muchas formas de colaborar para ayudar a dar oportunidades a personas que se encuentran en una situación de extrema pobreza.
¡No te lo pierdas y únete a nosotros en este evento tan especial!
In a pioneering initiative, Arigatou International — Geneva, the Global Network of Religions for Children (GNRC) Tanzania, and the Global Religions for Children Foundation joined forces to carry out a training workshop in Tanzania. Launched during the Day of the African Child, the workshop equipped religious, community leaders, and social workers with skills to nurture the spiritual development of children in their formative years. The event is based on the innovative Toolkit, “Nurturing the Spiritual Development of Children in the Early Years,” developed by the Consortium on Nurturing Values and Spirituality in Early Childhood for the Prevention of Violence.
The workshop, held from 16-20 June 2024, brought together 16 participants from various faith communities, including Roman Catholics, Mennonites, the Shia Muslim community, and the Bahá’í community. Over the course of three days, participants reflected on the critical role of spiritual development in preventing violence in early childhood and learned how to facilitate similar workshops in their local communities for parents and caregivers.
A highlight was the participation of Mr. Mathis Haule, Deputy Director of the Child Development Department from the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups in Tanzania. In his address, Mr. Haule provided an insightful overview of the challenges related to violence against children in Tanzania and emphasized the government’s ongoing collaboration with stakeholders to address this pressing issue.
Underscoring national initiatives for Early Childhood Development (ECD), Mr. Haule stated, “We are currently developing a national ECD program and guidelines for parenting. These initiatives do not currently include aspects of spiritual development despite its importance, and by participating in this workshop we look forward to understanding how we can integrate spiritual development into our national initiatives.”
This workshop marks the first implementation of the Toolkit in Africa, positioning Tanzania as a leader in advancing spiritual development within the region. Participants include child development NGO representatives, project officers, religious leaders, and government consultants, many of whom bring substantial expertise in child development and ECD. Their main takeaways have centered on bridging the gap in integrating spiritual development into existing ECD programs and its profound link to preventing violence.
Participants reflected on the multifaceted nature of spirituality and its significance in shaping a child’s early years. Discussions focused on fostering safe environments, positive relationships, and empowering experiences that cultivate spiritual growth.
The workshop was facilitated by Mr. Suchith Abeyewickreme, Technical Lead, at Arigatou International – Geneva; Mr. Francisco Vila, Head of Programs at Arigatou International – Geneva; Ms. Joyce Mdachi, Coordinator at GNRC Tanzania; and Mr. Venance Temu, Project Officer at GNRC Tanzania. This initiative was possible thanks to the support of the Smart Peace Foundation.
As the program continues, the participants are expected to carry forward the teachings to their communities, contributing to a larger movement across Africa that prioritizes spiritual development as a cornerstone of child protection. The Shia, Bahai and Mennonites communities, as well as, the NGO Ladies Joint Forum committed to implementing the Toolkit within their existing ECD programs.
Following the workshop, a roundtable discussion took place on 21 June 2024, bringing together 11 religious leaders from diverse communities including the Anglican Church, Moravian Church, Shia Community, National Muslim Council of Tanzania (BAKWATA), Lutheran Church, Bahá’í Community, Hindu Community, and the Inter-religious Council for Peace Tanzania.
The roundtable aimed to introduce the Consortium and the Toolkit, explore potential synergies and collaborations, and discuss strategies for integrating the Toolkit into existing Early Childhood Programs. The discussion also focused on advocating for the inclusion of Spiritual Development in Early Childhood Development Programs at both national and regional levels.
We extend our gratitude to our partners for their steadfast commitment and to the participants for their dedication. This initiative was made possible with the generous support of the Smart Peace Foundation.
Los restaurantes Nomo colaboran con Fundació CODESPA para luchar contra la pobreza
El trabajo de Fundació CODESPA no sería posible sin la colaboración de fundaciones y empresas, instituciones públicas y privadas. Establecer alianzas con ellas tiene un efecto multiplicador que nos permite ayudar a más personas a salir de la situación de pobreza en que se encuentran. Y Grupo Nomo es una de las empresas, solidaria y socialmente comprometida, que quiere contribuir a lograr una sociedad más justa y sostenible.
Los restaurantes Nomo nacen de un concepto fresco e innovador, diferente a lo que existía hasta el momento y que les ha convertido en un punto de referencia en el mundo de la gastronomía japonesa. Su máxima es la de ofrecer lo mejor de la cultura nipona, pero haciendo uso de los mejores productos de nuestra tierra. Y, juntos, vamos a poner en marcha una acción que va a ser exquisita…. en todos los sentidos.
Spicy Tuna, un plato muy sabroso y solidario
Todos los platos que se sirven en los restaurantes Nomo son una delicia de la gastronomía japonesa. Y hay uno, en especial, que además va a tener una finalidad solidaria: el Spicy Tuna Roll. Porque, del 1 de junio al 31 de agosto de 2024, por cada plato de esta especialidad que se pida en los restaurantes Nomo, 0.5€ irán destinados a Fundació CODESPA.
La discapacidad visual de Rosario no le ha impedido iniciar una actividad comercial de crianza de pollos.
Para ello, contaremos con la colaboración de los restaurantes del grupo en distintas ciudades: Nomo Gràcia, Nomo Galvany y Nomo Sarrià, en Barcelona; Nomo Braganza y Nomo Market Goya, en Madrid; Nomo Nàutic, en Sant Feliu de Guíxols; Far Nomo, en Palafrugell; Nomo Mar, en Llafranc; y Nomo Girona.
La recaudación que se consiga con esta acción solidaria irá destinada a apoyar el proyecto “Mejorar la fertilidad del suelo y la productividad de los cultivos, a través de insumos agrícolas ecológicos, en Filipinas”. Con esta iniciativa se promueve que pequeños agricultores de la isla de Mindanao utilicen el Biocarbón en sus parcelas, un compuesto orgánico obtenido de la cáscara de arroz que se suele desechar. Con ello no solo reducen el gasto y uso de fertilizantes químicos, sino que también consiguen incrementar la productividad de sus cultivos y ayudan a regenerar el suelo. El resultado implica una mejora en las condiciones económicas tanto de los productores y distribuidores del biofertilizante, como de los pequeños campesinos que los utilizan en sus cultivos.
¿Te sumas a esta acción solidaria?
Gracias a la generosidad y solidaridad de empresas como Grupo Nomo, CODESPA ya ha ayudado a salir de la pobreza a más de 5 millones de personas. Y, si quieres, tú también puedes colaborar. Te animamos a ir a cualquiera de los restaurantes Nomo. Si te gusta la comida japonesa, en todos ellos comerás de maravilla, en un ambiente agradable y con un servicio excepcional. Y si, entre el 1 de junio y el 31 de agosto, pides el plato solidario Spicy Tuna, aportarás tu granito de arena para dar una oportunidad a personas en situación de exclusión a salir del círculo de pobreza en que se encuentran.
Held on 23-25 April 2024, the ‘Convening of Champions’ meeting marked a significant milestone in the Ethics Education Fellowship collaboration. The gathering was attended by 70 participants from 17 countries, including senior representatives from Ministries of Education, UNESCO offices, partner organizations, as well as religious leaders. The event served as a bustling hub for discussing the importance of prioritizing and investing in Ethics Education.
The event featured two days of technical discussions and strategic planning, followed by a one-day high-level segment. Held in Abu Dhabi, UAE, the meeting was co-hosted by the Muslim Council of Elders and the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity, together with Arigatou International, Guerrand-Hermès Foundation for Peace, KAICIID International Dialogue Centre, and UNESCO.
The meeting explored the Ethics Education Fellowship program’s transformative impact on children, teachers and the community. Launched in 2022 with the engagement of the Ministries of Education of Bangladesh, Indonesia, Kenya, Mauritius, Nepal and Seychelles, the program sought to contribute to global citizenship and to build inclusive and peaceful societies.
Throughout the three-day event, participants reflected on the critical role Ethics Education plays in the current context and how it can address the needs of children to support their holistic well-being. “An essential step in the road to peace is to ensure that every child grows up with full access to their innate capacity for spiritual development. This is why the implementation of interfaith ethics education both in schools and in other educational settings is so vital,” stated Mr. Hironari Miyamoto, in representation of Rev. Keishi Miyamoto, President of Arigatou International.
In the same vein, H.E. Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Education of the UAE stated, “Our approach to education must ensure that our young people develop a core set of universal principles and values that reflect the shared experience of humanity that are relevant in any society.”
Representatives from the Ministries of Education shared invaluable insights drawn from their experiences implementing the program in the participating countries, which reached 324 teachers and benefited 8,034 children and youth. They showcased the excellent results of the program, discussed challenges and opportunities, explored its scalability and sustainability at the national level and looked into potential collaborations with diverse partners.
H.E. Dr. Justin Davis Valentin, Seychelles Minister of Education, remarked, “We took the Fellowship Program very seriously and it fits very well in our strategy of promoting value-based education. We are already experiencing great outcomes as a result of implementing ethics education within our school curricula.”
One of the event’s highlights was amplifying the voices of children and young people. Through video messages, children shared their learnings after participating in the program. Alice, a young student from Kenya explained how the program helped children in her class coexist more peacefully by appreciating the differences between ethnic groups. Similarly, Tia, a student from Seychelles said, “Ethics education is important for me because it showed me to learn more about me and others;” “Ethics Education also taught us to avoid racism, treat everyone equally and respect everyone’s precious opinion” added Warisa, from Bangladesh. Bernadeth from Indonesia stated that the activities were interesting and fun. “I learned how to make quick and wise decisions. I think it is important for my daily life,” she declared.
Calling for the Ministries of Education to continue and expand the program, Kumakshi, a student from Mauritius said, “I hope that ethics education will be introduced in all schools in Mauritius.” “All students should have the opportunity to get involved in ethics education programs,” reflected Krishna, from Nepal.
Country representatives made commitments to increase the investment and focus on Ethics Education in formal and non-formal education systems. They also stated their plans to integrate and mainstream Ethics Education to promote intercultural and interreligious learning and dialogue in the education curriculum, policies and programming across the education system. Participating countries’ plans include strengthening the capacity of formal education institutions and educators on Ethics Education through teacher training programs for pre- and in-service teachers.
“We have seen in these days concrete evidence of how ethics education contributes to foster the principles of human fraternity and interconnectedness, peaceful coexistence and solidarity, nurturing positive relationships and empowering learners to transform societies,” stated Dr. Khalid Al Ghaith, Secretary General of the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity, on behalf of the Secretary General of the Muslim Council of Elders, Judge Abdelsalam, as the event came to an end.
A full report of the event, including its main results, next steps, and the commitments from each country will be released soon. The recording of the high-level panel is available in this link.
We thank the ministries of education, and partners of the Ethics Education Fellowship, including the fellows, teachers and children, as well as the high-level panel speakers and attendants, for walking with us on this transformative journey towards integrating Ethics Education into children’s educational pathway.
La Fundación ISS ‘Una Sonrisa Más’ visita el proyecto de CODESPA que apoya en Marruecos.
La Fundación ISS ‘Una Sonrisa Más’ lleva más de 16 años impulsando proyectos de creación de empleo en países en vías de desarrollo, especialmente enfocados a la creación de empleo sostenible y al empoderamiento de la mujer. Recientemente, algunas de las personas que forman parte de la fundación viajaron a Marruecos para conocer de primera mano el proyecto de CODESPA que han apoyado, con el fin de promover el empleo en el sector turístico para 60 mujeres en situación de vulnerabilidad.
A lo largo de 2 días, una representación de los socios de la Fundación ISS visitó tanto el centro de formación Al Amal, en Tetuán, como la cooperativa textil Tanafelt, en Chaouen, para conocer de primera mano el impacto que el proyecto ha generado en las personas beneficiarias y sus comunidades. Todas ellas comparten una situación de riesgo de exclusión social y pocas oportunidades para acceder a un empleo digno.
En Tetuán visitaron las clases del centro Al Amal, donde se imparten las formaciones, y vivir en primera persona una master class en pastelería, con el apoyo de las beneficiarias del curso. También tuvieron la oportunidad de hablar con directivos de dos importantes empresas privadas marroquíes, el grupo hotelero Banyan Tree y la cadena de hipermercados Marjane, donde algunas de las beneficiarias realizan prácticas como parte complementaria de su formación. Al finalizar la jornada, los visitantes de ISS entregaron a 15 mujeres el diploma que certifica que han llevado a cabo con éxito la formación en pastelería.
Los empleados de ISS con las beneficiarias del centro Al Amal que acaban de recibir el diploma de formación en pastelería
En la cooperativa textil Tanafelt, en Chaouen, también compartieron unas horas con las beneficiarias y pudieron probar los telares en los que elaboran las artesanías textiles. Estas mujeres, que viven en comunidades rurales cercanas, se forman en artesanía textil para poder incorporarse en el sector turístico de la provincia de Chefchaouen.
“El impacto que nos ha generado es de grata satisfacción y orgullo. Los resultados son impresionantes y no eres consciente hasta que lo ves con tus propios ojos. La excelencia y la profesionalidad del equipo de CODESPA en Marruecos, así como la de los centros “Al Amal” en Tetuán y la Cooperativa textil Tanafelt, en Chaouen, nos motivan a trasladar la importancia de promover alianzas como ésta para contribuir a un mundo mejor”, nos decía Eulàlia Devesa, directora de la Fundación ISS ‘Una Sonrisa Más’, al finalizar el viaje.
La Fundación ISS ‘Una Sonrisa Más’ colabora desde el año 2007 en diferentes proyectos de empleo digno junto a Fundación Codespa. Éstos se han podido llevar a cabo gracias a las aportaciones voluntarias de los empleados de ISS, que donan los céntimos de sus nóminas para dar oportunidades a personas en situación de exclusión social y pocas oportunidades para acceder a un empleo digno.
Liliana Jiménez, una de las empleadas de ISS que visitó estos proyectos en Marruecos, expresa el efecto que ha tenido esta experiencia para ella: “Estoy muy satisfecha de saber que, con poco, podemos ayudar a todas las mujeres que lo necesitan. Ver la cara de felicidad de todas ellas, y cómo llevan preparándose estos meses para conseguir un título y poder salir adelante, no se puede expresar con palabras.”
El Cercle Català de Madrid ha rebut, aquest dissabte, el Premi Casal Català de l’Any 2023, una distinció única i singular que reconeix la tasca de les comunitats catalanes a l’estranger i que promou el diari digital Exterior.cat, del Grup Comunicació 21. La gala, que ha tingut lloc a l’Espai Línia de Barcelona, ha aplegat una nodrida representació de la Catalunya exterior.
En aquesta primera edició, el Cercle Català de Madrid n’ha estat el guanyador, i el Casal Bay Area i North Califòrnia (Estats Units), el finalista. Tres casals catalans més van ser seleccionats fins a l’última tria: Brussel·les (Bèlgica), Guayaquil (Equador) i Victòria Melbourne (Austràlia).
La vicepresidenta del Cercle Català de Madrid, Carlota Jover, ha recollit el Premi Casal Català de l’Any en mans del director general de la Catalunya exterior, Rafael Caballeria, qui ha destacat “la força de la comunitat catalana, representada per més d’un centenar de casals catalans en 40 països d’arreu del món”.
Albert Masquef: “Aquesta distinció ens ajuda a continuar endavant després d’una trajectòria de més de 70 anys”
En el torn d’intervencions, l’expresident del Cercle Català de Madrid, Albert Masquef ha parlat en nom de l’actual president, Josep Ramon Casas, qui no ha pogut assistir en l’acte. Masquef agraït la distinció atorgada per Exterior.cat: “ens ajuda a continuar endavant després d’una trajectòria de més de 70 anys”. En la seva intervenció, ha subratllat que “la cultura és el nostre distintiu” i, així, ha avançat que el Cercle prepara una gran festa de la cultura catalana a Madrid l’any 2027 coincidint amb el 75è aniversari de l’entitat.
Montserrat Roviralta ha rebut el premi en mans del director general de la Catalunya exterior, Rafael Caballeria [Foto: Joanna Chichelnitzky]
Rafael Caballeria: “La força de la comunitat catalana està representada per més d’un centenar de casals en 40 països d’arreu del món”
D’altra banda, el Casal Bay Area i North Califòrnia ha rebut la distinció de finalista del Premi Casal Català de l’Any. “Estem profundament agraïts i emocionats per rebre aquest reconeixement, és un reflex de l’esforç i la implicació dels integrants del nostre casal”, ha dit el president de l’entitat, Joan Morales. “Amb aquest reconeixement, estem més motivats que mai per continuar enfortint la nostra comunitat, fent que la cultura catalana sigui coneguda i estimada a la badia de San Francisco”, ha reblat. Morales també ha agraït la tasca del diari digital Exterior.cat: “ens apropeu a casa i ens feu més visibles dins Catalunya”.
Des de Washington, el delegat del Govern als EUA i el Canadà, Isidre Sala, ha assegurat que és una distinció “molt merescuda”, d’una entitat que, a més, “sempre ajuda a altres comunitats catalanes de l’Amèrica del Nord que comencen el projecte de casal català”. En representació del Casal Bay Area i North Califòrnia, Montserrat Roviralta ha rebut el premi en mans del director general de la Catalunya exterior, Rafael Caballeria.
Meritxell Serret: “La Catalunya exterior la fem entre tots”
La intervenció de la consellera Serret durant l’acte [Foto: Joanna Chichelnitzky]
En l’acte, la consellera d’Acció Exterior i Unió Europea, Meritxell Serret ha assegurat que “la Catalunya exterior la fem tots, des de les institucions i també la pròpia societat catalana”.
En aquest sentit, ha felicitat els casals premiats per, segons la consellera, “tota la feina que feu sempre i amb per al compromís amb la llengua i la cultura catalana”, a més de “ser un punt de trobada i teixir xarxa en cadascun dels països”. A més, ha afegit que “les comunitats catalanes a l’exterior sou una prioritat per al Govern, us anirem acompanyant sempre”.
Finalment, Serret ha agraït l’equip del diari digital Exterior.cat per “tirar endavant aquesta iniciativa”, ha desitjat que la iniciativa del Premi Casal Català de l’Any tingui continuïtat i, sobretot, ha destacat “la feina professional i constant d’explicar què fa Catalunya al món” que fa la capçalera del Grup Comunicació 21.
Quim Miró: “Amb aquest premi posem en valor la tasca dels casals catalans d’arreu del món”
El director editorial del digital Exterior.cat dirigint-se als asistents [Foto: Joanna Chichelnitzky]
En la gala, el director editorial d’Exterior.cat, Quim Miró ha subratllat que “amb aquest premi posem en valor la tasca que fan tots els casals catalans a l’exterior, que són l’ànima de la nostra capçalera, un projecte pioner que va néixer amb la voluntat de contribuir a donar visibilitat a l’acció exterior i que s’ha consolidat amb un distintiu clar: explicar què fa Catalunya al món”.
La capçalera complirà sis anys el gener vinent. Miró ha posat en valor “la visió periodística i empresarial” de l’editor del Grup Comunicació21, David Centol per impulsar un diari digital que “cobreix, diàriament, una demanda informativa des d’una òptica diferent i complementària a l’oferta de la resta de periòdics digitals catalans”. I també ha agraït “la confiança i el compromís” del Govern en la capçalera.
Nodrida representació de la Catalunya exterior
En la gala hi han assistit el president de la Federació d’Ateneus de Catalunya, Pep Morella; el president de l’Adifolk, Ivan Besora; el president de l’Institut de Projecció Exterior de la Cultura Catalana (IPECC), Xavier Tudela; i el president d’honor del Consell Català del Moviment Europeu, Xavier Ferrer; els representants de la Federació Internacional d’Entitats Catalanes (FIEC), Antoni Montserrat i Elisenda Bujons; i el cap de política de RAB Ràdio, Alex Mendoza.
Representants d’entitats catalanes de projecció exterior [Foto: Joanna Chichelnitzky]
La gala, presentada per la periodista d’Exterior.cat Maria Cerezuela, ha comptat amb l’actuació musical de Claudia del Valle, qui ha presentat el seu primer treball ‘El que callem’.
El Cercle Català de Madrid premiat a la categoria de Comunicació Associativa pel nostre projecte de ràdio en col·laboració amb Ràdio Amèrica Barcelona (RAB Ràdio)
El Cercle Català de Madrid ha rebut aquesta tarda el 3er premi dins la Categoria de Comunicació Associativa dins els reconeixements anuals que fa la Federació d’Ateneus de Catalunya als ateneus hi addherits. No és la primera vegada però que el Cercle Català de Madrid és distingit amb aquest guardó, fa 5 anys ens van reconéixer amb el primer premi per la nostra Colla Castellera de Madrid.
En aquesta ocasió, el nostre president en Josep Ramon Casas ha rebut de mans de Pep Morella, president de la FAC, el guardó dins la categoria de Comunicació Associativa. El primer i segon premiat han estat: “Fem Ateneu” de Societat LaLLiga i “Els cursos del Centre” de El Centre Arenys de Munt
El nostre projecte va engegar oficialment a l’estiu passat i actualment ens podeu seguir cada divendres en A Banda i Banda de RAB Ràdio. I aviat engegarem l’emissió d’un nou programa sobre el món Casteller a mans amb la nostra Colla Castellera.
Natura convoca todos los años el Premio Natura, un certamen que apoya proyectos sociales o medioambientales propuestos por entidades, asociaciones o fundaciones con carácter no gubernamental. Este premio supone un reconocimiento y una muestra de admiración hacia todas aquellas personas y proyectos que trabajan día a día por generar un impacto positivo en algún lugar del mundo. Desde 1994 ha apoyado más de 80 proyectos, que escogen los empleados de Natura entre las propuestas finalistas.
El proyecto que ha presentado Fundació CODESPA en 2023 tiene como finalidad dar oportunidades de reintegración y reinserción social para 150 niños, entre 7 y 17 años, que se encuentran recluidos en Centros Detención de Menores (EGEE: Établissement d´Éducation et de Garde d´Enfants) en la ciudad de Goma. Su reclusión se debe, principalmente, a su pasado como ex niños soldado, lo que les ha convertido, al mismo tiempo, en víctimas y verdugos de numerosos casos de violencia.
Mediante este proyecto, CODESPA y Don Bosco Ngangi, socio local con el que lo llevamos a cabo, pretenden reeducar a estos niños recluidos y prepararlos para la convivencia pacífica y su reintegración en la sociedad. Además, se les ofrece la oportunidad de recibir formación para poder acceder a un empleo, ser autosuficiente una vez salgan del centro de detención y poder reinsertarse.
Escuela de campo cacao promotora - Ecuador
Cómo la “Economía Naranja” ayuda a emprender a jóvenes vulnerables en Nicaragua
En el video que hay debajo de estas líneas, Josué Kambale Mali, uno de los beneficiarios de esta intervención, explica a los empleados de Natura lo que ha significado para él tener una oportunidad y por qué cree que el proyecto de CODESPA debería ser ganador de los Premios Natura.
Amb 71 anys d’història, el Cercle Català de Madrid és un dels més actius de tota la xarxa de casals catalans d’arreu del món. En marxa des de 1952, el Cercle escenifica un gran simbolisme per la seva promoció de la llengua i la cultura catalanes al cor de la capital espanyola.
L’entitat no només s’ha convertit en el punt de trobada de la comunitat catalana a Madrid sinó que actualment és un pol d’atracció per a molts ciutadans residents a la Comunidad i que participen activament en les seves activitats. Ho exemplifiquen amb escreix el Grup de Teatre Santiago Rusiñol i la colla castellera ‘Los Gatos’, integrats majoritàriament per persones no catalanes residents a la comunitat de Madrid.
Tres casals més van ser seleccionats fins l’última tria: Brussel·les, Guayaquil i Victòria Melbourne
El Cercle Català de Madrid ofereix una programació d’activitats àmplia i diversa: sardanes (incansables al Retiro), teatre (mostra de teatre amateur), dibuix i pintura (fira), màgia i ensenyament del català (cursos i voluntariat), a més d’una Festa Major que s’allarga durant 10 dies. És especialment meritori que les propostes que ofereix el Cercle per a la ciutat són al marge de la programació de la Llibreria-Centre Cultural Blanquerna, que depèn de la delegació del Govern a Madrid.
Com a novetat, aquest 2023 el Cercle ha posat en marxa el voluntariat per la llengua (amb una alta participació) i convertint-se en una de les seus de RAB Ràdio. També aquest 2023 és una data assenyalada: es commemora el centenari de la posada en marxa del primer casal català organitzat a Madrid. El Cercle forma part de la Federació d’Ateneus de Catalunya (FAC).
El finalista: Casal Bay Area i North California
El Casal Bay Area i North California -el Casal Català de San Francisco (Estats Units)- ha estat el finalista de la primera edició del Premi al Casal Català de l’Any. Fundat l’any 1991 i integrada per catalans, catalanoamericans i amics de Catalunya, és una entitat molt dinàmica i cohesionada formada per una munió de catalans i catalanes que viuen al nord de Califòrnia.
Les activitats que promouen reuneixen la comunitat de l’àrea de la badia de San Francisco i faciliten l’intercanvi cultural, social i en xarxa entre catalans i catalanoamericans.
A banda del guanyador i finalista, tres casals més van ser seleccionats fins a l’última tria: el Casal Català de Brussel·les (Bèlgica), el Casal Català de Guayaquil (Equador) i el Casal Català de Victòria Melbourne (Austràlia).
El Premi, primera edició
El Premi al Casal Català de l’Any neix per posar en valor la tasca que fan els diferents casals i associacions arreu del món com a punt de trobada de les diferents comunitats. A més, fomenten el vincle des de l’exterior amb Catalunya a través de la llengua, la cultura i altres àmbits, i promouen el coneixement del país.
El premi s’ha atorgat tenint en compte la trajectòria, els projectes i la vàlua dels casals analitzats. El guanyador i el finalista ha estat escollit per l’equip de redacció d’Exterior.cat. El director editorial de la publicació, Quim Miró explica que “la tria ha estat molt difícil, tenint en compte que hi ha casals catalans molt actius, malgrat que molts d’ells tenen una trajectòria més curta”.
Del guanyador i el finalista, Miró ha destacat “l’arrelament i la capacitat de convocatòria que té el Cercle Català de Madrid més enllà de la pròpia comunitat catalana i el dinamisme i la cohesió grupal del Casal Bay Area i North California”.
La distinció té una periodicitat anual, no té cap recompensa econòmica i s’entregarà cada any a un casal diferent.
La gala, a l’Espai Línia de Barcelona
La gala de lliurament del premi tindrà lloc el pròxim mes de desembre a l’Espai Línia de Barcelona, seu del Grup Comunicació21. “Volem que sigui la gran festa de la Catalunya exterior, i que es perpetuï com una cita anual”, ha manifestat Miró.
A banda del lliurament de la distinció, en la gala és prevista una actuació musical, que aplegarà fins a 150 convidats vinculats a la Catalunya Exterior, des dels professionals de la conselleria d’Acció Exterior i Unió Europea fins a membres dels casals i de la diàspora d’entitats representatives del sector.
A Training of Trainers workshop on the Toolkit: Nurturing the Spiritual Development of Children in the Early Years was held in Mexico City from 12 to 16 June 2023. This was the first of its kind in Mexico and the second in a series of four workshops, following on from the successful workshop held the previous month in Curitiba, Brazil.
The workshop aimed at empowering trainers with the knowledge, skills, and tools required to design, plan, execute, monitor, and evaluate training programs for facilitators who will work directly with parents, caregivers, and educators.
The workshop gathered 20 participants, including Catholic Sisters, psychologists, educators and staff members from the organizing partners that have committed to implementing the Toolkit into their existing programs in the field. The workshop was hosted by the Franciscan Sisters, and co-organized by Arigatou International and World Vision – Mexico. The Global Center for the Development of the Whole Child at the University of Notre Dame, which are leading the Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) framework, also supported the workshop and guided the MEL processes. The workshop was also observed by Porticus North America, who funded the first two years of implementation in Mexico as well as the global MEL framework development.
During the workshop, participants reflected on the importance of spiritual development in the model of holistic development in early childhood, our own understandings of spirituality, and the criticality of nurturing one’s own spirituality in order to nurture children to develop to their full capacities spiritually.
In the kick-off, Mr. José Antonio Ruiz, National Officer for Child Protection from UNICEF México, joined the session, to present important statistics about the challenges children face regarding violence in the country. It was a thought-provoking moment that reminded the attendants of the significance of protecting children, especially in the early years, and the importance of such workshops.
Throughout the 5 days, participants delved deeply into the connection between nurturing the spiritual development of children and their protection from violence. Participants explored how the brain develops and the impact of violence on its development, as well as exploring the critical importance of three key conditions that support children’s holistic well-being. These conditions, empowering experiences, positive relationships and safe, respectful and violence-free environments, were examined through different activities and group work.
Participants also considered how they would cascade their learnings to other adults in their communities and organizations, who would later be trained as facilitators, and think about conducting this learning program to empower parents, caregivers, and educators to nurture the spiritual development of children in the early years. The training highlighted the need to tailor the sessions of the Toolkit to diverse cultural, religious and spiritual contexts, and how to address diverse types of violence affecting children and families in the communities in which they work.
At the end of the week, participants shared that the workshop provided them with both professional skills and personal spiritual growth, especially with the focus on oneself. “It is never too late to think about yourself and take some time to meditate, find yourself and give priority to oneself as a person,” said one of the participants. Through this connection with oneself, participants also shared that it reinvigorated their personal motivation and passion for working with children and families as it enabled them to understand spirituality as the interconnectedness with others.
Also, participants shared how they enjoyed the methodology and learning process of the workshop as it provided them with deep personal growth through practical activities that connected the theory to their realities. One participant said that, “It exceeded my expectations and was a radical change in my personal and professional life.”
The Franciscan Sisters and World Vision – Mexico will implement the Toolkit systematically for the next year and a half within their existing programs, expecting to reach 4,700 parents and caregivers through on-site training in four regions of Mexico.
We thank our partners for working hand in hand with us on this one-of-a-kind project and extend heartfelt gratitude to all participants, who are now pioneer trainers on the spiritual development of children, for paving the way to make a real difference in the lives of families and children across Mexico.
Arigatou International – Geneva in collaboration with Pastoral da Criança has successfully conducted the first-ever training of trainers workshop on the Toolkit: Nurturing the Spiritual Development of Children in the Early Years. The workshop took place at the Museu da Vida in Curitiba, Brazil from the 8th to the 12th of May, 2023.
The Toolkit was developed by the Consortium on Nurturing Values and Spirituality in Early Childhood for the Prevention of Violence and was launched in Rome, in 2022. The Toolkit aims to help equip faith actors, parents, caregivers, educators and community members to actively engage in the promotion of children’s well-being by nurturing spiritual development in the early years and to address violence in early childhood. This workshop was designed to empower participants with the essential tools and knowledge to cascade these capacities within their organizations.
The group of participants included ten members of Pastoral da Criança, and four members of Fraternity – International Humanitarian Federation (FIHF), who work in various humanitarian settings across Brazil. Among the participants were Catholic Sisters, community leaders and parish coordinators, as well as technical staff from the organizations.
This was a very unique workshop, not only because of its inaugural status but also for the innovative way in which was rolled out using digital tools. Through the use of their app, Pastoral da Criança can reach families and communities in remote areas. Their app, available online and offline, provides material for families to download and access as well as a space for facilitators and trainers to upload reporting, updates and seek help from the technical team of Pastoral da Criança.
Throughout the sessions, participants were able to connect the content of the Toolkit with the contexts in which they work and gain practical skills to directly implement it with beneficiaries such as parents, caregivers, and educators. Moreover, they will be able to train other adults to become facilitators of the Toolkit.
During the discussion on early childhood and children’s holistic development, participants were prompted to reflect on their own childhood experiences. This led to a sense of gratitude towards the adults who played a significant role in their upbringing. One participant shared, “My parents were the foundation for everything. Despite being illiterate, my mother placed great importance on our education, and I feel deeply grateful for this.”
Participants explored the connection between their spirituality and nature. One participant shared her strong bond with Mother Earth and her indigenous roots, and how this is linked to her understanding of spirituality. After reflecting on how we are all interconnected, participants expressed a great sense of gratitude toward others.
The session on the importance of creating empowering experiences for children led participants to reflect on the different ways they can create opportunities for children. “We must allow them to become protagonists,” a participant highlighted.
Guided by the expertise of Arigatou International, in conjunction with Ms. Carol Dalabona, National Coordinator, and Ms. Priscila do Rocio Costa, both from Pastoral da Criança, the sessions unfolded with great interest and enthusiasm from the participants.
The Consortium on Nurturing Values and Spirituality in Early Childhood for the Prevention of Violence is comprised of 22 partners from faith-based and civil society organizations, religious and spiritual communities, academia, multilateral organizations and individual experts.
The Toolkit was developed as part of a four-year process and collaboration as a contribution to the protection of children from violence and for the promotion of their holistic well-being.
We’re delighted to witness the Toolkit coming to life through this hands-on training, and we look forward to seeing the positive influence it will bring to communities throughout Brazil.
The Ethics Education Fellowship program unfolded simultaneously across six countries, making significant strides to strengthen the sustainable delivery of ethics education programs for children. Through the program, 323 teachers have been trained, paving the way to impact 4,430 children in Bangladesh, Indonesia, Kenya, Mauritius, Nepal, and Seychelles in its first year.
This groundbreaking initiative brings together six ministries of education and UNESCO National Commissions, which have worked hand in hand to integrate ethics education into their national programs. The ministries have made institutional commitments to pilot ethics education programs in formal education settings, to contribute to their national educational goals and ultimately strengthen the social cohesion to build more peaceful and inclusive societies.
“Ethics education is at the center of our planning of transforming education. It is much more important to have ethics at the center of given education rather than to have a good school infrastructure, teacher training, books and modern technologies by which we are providing it,” stated Dr. Dipu Moni, Minister of Education of Bangladesh.
This collaborative effort is made possible through a partnership between Arigatou International, the Guerrand-Hermès Foundation for Peace, the KAICIID International Dialogue Centre, the Muslim Council of Elders, the UNESCO Regional Office for Eastern Africa, and the UNESCO New Delhi Cluster Office, in collaboration with the National Commissions for UNESCO of the participating countries.
Teacher Training Workshop in Nepal
A Transformative Pedagogy Approach
Education plays a critical role in building more inclusive, peaceful societies. Ethics education, in particular, can equip teachers to provide educational spaces that nurture in learners the kind of ethical values and ethical reflection practices that can equip them to flourish and thrive.
“When we talk of ethics education we are not talking about the philosophical study of ethics, we are talking about creating spaces for children. We want to go on a journey with you to help empower our children,” explained Mr. Suchith Abeyewickreme, Program Officer, Arigatou International – Geneva.
Ethics Education equips children and youth with life skills by employing transformative pedagogical approaches that place them at the center of learning, enhance their capacity to think critically, make ethical decisions, and learn to work collaboratively with others to make positive contributions to their communities.
Teacher Training Workshop in Seychelles
First Train the Trainers Workshop
The Ethics Education Fellowship kicked off in Indonesia on 3-9 October 2022 with a Train the Trainers Workshop for the 30 fellows, which includes ministry officers, school principals, teachers, professors, lecturers, teacher trainers, and curriculum developers from the six participant countries. At the workshop, the fellows were trained in designing and delivering training workshops for teachers.
“The fellows are ethics education champions in their country. They will serve to strengthen the country’s capacity for ethics education through the capacity development of teachers and teacher education as well as school-based initiatives,” explained Ms. Mary Kangethe, Director of the Education Programme at the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO.
During this immersive workshop, the fellows sharpened their knowledge, skills, and competencies in ethics education and transformative pedagogies that support dialogue, reflection and action. They are now spearheading the program at the national level, and working with other government education partners to ensure that ethics education can be integrated into training, national programming and policies.
Mike Waltner, Senior Programme Manager for the Asia Region Programme at the International Dialogue Centre – KAICIID described this initiative as transformative. “It’s more than integrating ethics and dialogue into education systems; it’s about catalyzing societal change. Teachers are bringing the lessons from the fellowship into classrooms and beyond to empower children and youth to be agents of that change. At KAICIID, we believe in the power of dialogue to foster understanding and peace. This project equips young learners to be leaders who can work together with their peers from different religions and cultures to create a better world,” he said.
Training of Trainers Workshop in Indonesia
Training Workshops for Teachers
Between January and May 2023, the fellows conducted national training workshops for teachers, with the technical support of international trainers from Arigatou International and KAICIID. In total, 323 teachers were trained in the implementation of ethics education programs for children.
“If I hadn’t attended this workshop on ethics education, I wouldn’t have noticed several things that I’m aware of now. This workshop has had a direct impact on me. I now find myself automatically thinking, reflecting, and seeing things differently,” shared one of the participants from Seychelles.
A participant from Nepal shared how the workshop had helped him become aware of his own unconscious biases. He understood the importance of treating all children equally, regardless of their differences, and felt empowered to ensure fairness and inclusivity for all students in the classroom.
These trained teachers are set to implement ethics education programs in their schools according to their country’s implementation plans. In its inaugural year, the program aims to reach 4,430 children.
The group of partners developed a comprehensive Training Guide to support the national teacher training workshops, offering step-by-step guidelines to support fellows to conduct the workshops, along with a framework and tools for monitoring, evaluation and learning. A Teacher Activity Booklet was also developed to support the designing and delivering of ethics education programs in the classroom.
The guides are based on Arigatou’s Ethics Education Approach and the expertise of KAICIID on interreligious and intercultural dialogue as central components of a transformative pedagogy that contribute to the promotion of global citizenship. They also include a human-centered education approach, promoted by the Guerrand-Hermes Foundation for Peace, that places the learner at the center of the education experience.
Teacher Training Workshop in Kenya
A Global Community of Practice
This initiative not only aims to establish a network of formal education institutions but also provides a platform for sharing knowledge and building capacity. In this light, a Global Community of Practice was established, fostering a network of Fellows. Through monthly webinars, participants deepen their knowledge on specific topics, receive support in preparing national workshops, share experiences, and strengthen connections.
Reflecting on the benefits of belonging to the Global Community of Practice, Ms. Nita Isaeni, a fellow from Indonesia said: “Being part of this community means a lot to me. It’s a place where I can learn and improve, not just in terms of knowledge but also in how I perceive things and connect with my inner self. Moreover, I get the opportunity to build connections and social networks with people from all over the world, which is very valuable to me.” Ms. Isaeni is the Coordinator of Learning Transformation, at the Directorate of Teachers for Primary School, MoECRT.
Teacher Training Workshop in Mauritius
Implementation with children in schools
In March 2023, the implementation with children began, yielding encouraging results. Teachers have witnessed positive outcomes, with notable improvements in student engagement and participation. Integration of peace and ethics clubs in schools has been a successful initiative, fostering a sense of community. Ms. Norah Babu, a teacher from Thogoto Model Primary School in Kenya, shared her perspective: “Through participatory and collaborative learning, students who were once hesitant to ask questions now feel comfortable seeking assistance from their peers. I’ve also learned the importance of creating a safe learning environment, resulting in my students eagerly anticipating my lessons.”
The Ethics Education Fellowship responds to the critical need to prioritize and invest in ethics education within formal education systems. By building the capacity of teachers to foster positive relationships and empower learners, the program contributes to the creation of more inclusive, respectful, and resilient societies. Equipped to respond to ethical challenges, students become active citizens and agents of positive change.
The Ethics Education Fellowship program serves as an inspiring example of the power of collaboration, dedication, and a shared commitment toward children, their education, and the future of our societies.
This news article has been developed jointly by the partners of the Ethics Education Fellowship.
The Ethics Education Fellowship made its debut in Seychelles with a national Teacher Training Workshop, held from 20 to 24 February 2023, which brought together 20 primary and secondary school teachers. The program, endorsed by the President of Seychelles and approved by the Cabinet of Ministers, aims to extend its reach to over 450 children across 15 schools.
The Ethics Education Fellowship Program
The Fellowship Program is a collaborative initiative involving the ministries of education from Bangladesh, Indonesia, Kenya, Mauritius, Nepal, and Seychelles. The program seeks to enhance the sustainable implementation of ethics education programs in formal education settings, promoting intercultural and interreligious learning and dialogue, as a contribution to global citizenship, and building more inclusive and peaceful societies.
By building the capacities of educators in each participating country, the program equips them with the skills to design and facilitate transformative learning journeys for children. This approach places learners at the center of the educational experience, fostering critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and collaborative problem-solving to empower them to make positive contributions to their communities.
Ms. Diana Monthy, a Lecturer at the Seychelles Institute of Teacher Education and a Fellow of the program, highlighted the importance of ethics education for the country. Referring to the national Constitution’s preamble, she emphasized that the program presents a timely opportunity to assess the national commitment and progress in creating “a just, fraternal and humane society in a spirit of friendship and co-operation with all peoples of the world… and where Seychelles serve as an example of a harmonious multi-racial society.”
The Training Workshop for Teachers
Ms. Merna Eulentin, the Principal Secretary for Education of Seychelles, took the stage at the opening ceremony of the training workshop for teachers, setting the tone for the upcoming days. In her opening remarks, Ms. Eulentin emphasized the Government of Seychelles’ commitment to ethics education and its importance as a means to strengthen educational programs: “Ethics education is the focal point at this critical untimely topic, it is a means to strengthen education programs that foster ethical values in an inter-cultural learning context,” she said. She also highlighted how this initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4.7, promoting a culture of peace, global citizenship, non-violence, and appreciation of cultural diversity.
The event was attended by the Executive Director of the Office of the Minister of Education, members of the National Assembly, the Dean of the University of Seychelles, as well as students and teachers.
Facilitator Mr. Suchith Abeyewickreme from Arigatou International delivered a keynote address, emphasizing the necessity of ethics education in a world that is increasingly diverse and interconnected. Mr. Abeyewickreme highlighted the need to acknowledge and engage with the diversity within classrooms and among teachers, making it an essential aspect of education.
Hosted at the University of Seychelles, the workshop was led by the national team of fellows with support from Mr. Abeyewickreme. The participants consisted of school teachers specializing in Personal Social Education and Catholic Religious Education.
Throughout the five-day workshop, participants familiarized themselves with the Ethics Education framework presented in the program. The framework is centered around three pillars: relationships, ethical reflections, and collective action. This approach enables learners to develop positive relationships, engage in ethical reflection and dialogue, and enhance their ability to live together harmoniously. By cultivating these skills, the program aims to empower children to effect positive change within their communities, fostering their personal growth and contributing to their societies.
Reflecting on the workshop, one participant shared, “If I hadn’t attended this workshop on ethics education, I wouldn’t have noticed several things that I’m aware of now. This workshop has had a direct impact on me. I now find myself automatically thinking, reflecting, and seeing things differently.”
Launch of the Implementation in Schools
The Fellowship Program was officially launched in Seychelles on 31 March 2023 in a formal ceremony, marking the beginning of its implementation with children from local schools.
The ceremony started with an address from Dr. Justin Valentin, Minister of Education of Seychelles, delivered by Ms. Merna Eulentin, Principal Secretary for Educational Services, followed by Mrs. Vicky Michel, Secretary General of the Seychelles National Commission for UNESCO, and Ms. Maria Lucia Uribe, Executive Director of Arigatou International – Geneva.
During the ceremony, the team of fellows presented the Ethics Education Fellowship highlighting its pillars and transformative pedagogical approach. Subsequently, certificates were awarded to the trained teachers.
Mr. Ahmed Afif, Vice President, and Mrs. Linda Ramkalawan, First Lady of the Republic of Seychelles, also attended the event. Artistic performances, including a song and a Creole dance performed by children, added to the celebratory atmosphere of the ceremony.
A Collaborative and Multistakeholder Journey
The Ethics Education Fellowship program is built on a fellowship model, with five representatives from each country collaborating to lead the national efforts. These representatives include educators and ministry officers who organize training workshops for teachers, monitor the successful implementation of ethics education programs for children, and advocate for the crucial role of ethics education at a national level.
Furthermore, the fellows have established a Global Community of Practice to foster collaboration, share experiences and work together for the expansion of the program.
The program is a collaboration between the ministries of education, together with Arigatou International, the Guerrand-Hermès Foundation for Peace, the KAICIID International Dialogue Centre, the Muslim Council of Elders, and UNESCO, represented by the UNESCO Regional Office for Eastern Africa and the UNESCO New Delhi Cluster Office. The process is supported by the National Commissions for UNESCO of Indonesia and Kenya.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated fellows: Ms. Betty-Mai Sofa, Ms. Sharon Frederic, Ms. Diana Monthy, Ms. Sandra Jeanne and Ms. Erica Derjacques-Inacio. We thank them for their invaluable contribution in conducting this teacher training workshop. We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to the partners and organizations involved, whose collaboration and support have played a pivotal role in ensuring the sustainability of this program.
A group of 38 teachers from Bangladesh recently participated in a 5-day training workshop as part of the Ethics Education Fellowship program. The workshop aimed to equip these educators with the necessary skills to implement the program in 19 schools, benefiting approximately 1,200 children across the country.
The Ethics Education Fellowship program is a collaborative initiative between the governments of Bangladesh, Indonesia, Kenya, Mauritius, Nepal, and Seychelles. Its objective is to foster ethical values in children, promote global citizenship and build a more peaceful and inclusive society. The Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education – DSHE, under the Ministry of Education of Bangladesh, is responsible for coordinating the program in the country.
Program Launch in Bangladesh
On 22 January 2023, the Ethics Education Fellowship program was officially launched in the People’s Republic of Bangladesh. Dr. Dipu Moni, the Minister of Education of Bangladesh, participated in this occasion. In her keynote speech, Dr. Moni emphasized the crucial role of ethics education in transforming education, stating, “Ethics education is at the center of our planning. It is much more important to have ethics at the core of education than to focus solely on infrastructure, teacher training, books, and modern technologies.”
The launch ceremony also saw the participation of Mr. Mohibul Hassan Chowdhury, Deputy Minister; Mr. Suleman Khan, Secretary, Secondary and Higher Education Division, Ministry of Education; Prof. Nehal Ahmed, Director General, Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education; Ms. Susan Viz, Officer in Charge of UNESCO Bangladesh, representatives from partner organizations, as well as teachers and children.
Training Workshop for Teachers
The training workshop for teachers took place from 22 to 26 February 2023. The local fellows, a group of five educators and ministry representatives, facilitated the workshop. The fellows play a pivotal role in leading the training, delivery, and advocacy efforts within the country.
Additionally, Ms. Eleonora Mura, Senior Expert on Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning from Arigatou International, provided support and guidance to the fellows during the workshop.
The opening ceremony of the training workshop featured keynote speeches by Dr. Suleman Khan, Secretary for Secondary and Higher Education, and Mr. Md. Belayer Hossain Talukdar, Additional Secretary. They emphasized the importance of ethics education in fostering critical thinking, and positive relationships, and implementing Global Citizenship Education. They also highlighted how the ongoing curriculum reform in Bangladesh has integrated ethics as a vital component, which is being incorporated into grades 1 and 2, as well as 6 and 7.
During the workshop, participants explored the Ethics Education Conceptual Framework, centered around three pillars: Relationships, Ethical Reflection and Dialogue, and Collective Action. Ms. Amina Begum, Senior Teacher of Bengali at Biddamoye Govt. Girls School, shared her perspective, stating, “The concept of dialogue and a safe learning environment are very meaningful aspects that will help me prepare and implement ethics education with children.”
A Transformative Impact on Teachers
After completing the workshop, the trainees expressed how the transformative pedagogy approach presented in the program empowered them to critically question their assumptions and biases. They felt encouraged to examine the root causes of social injustices and take action to create a more just and equitable society. The teachers recognized their potential as powerful advocates for change within their schools and communities, driving improvements in education at all levels.
Mr. Joydip Dey, one of the program fellows, highlighted the significant benefits brought about by the program. He pointed out, “In our previous education system, there was a heavy emphasis on rote learning, resulting in students being fed pre-structured ideas. Unfortunately, this approach sometimes contributed to increased intolerance in society. However, with the introduction of the new curriculum, we are now prioritizing independent thinking among learners, which strongly aligns with the principles of ethics education. It is indeed a crucial time to implement ethics education in Bangladesh.” Mr. Dey is an Assistant Professor at the Government Teachers Training College in Dhaka and a member of the subject committee of the National Curriculum Framework.
The implementation of the program with children in schools began in March, yielding highly positive responses from teachers, with significant engagement observed among the participating children.
We extend our sincere appreciation to the dedicated fellows: Ms. Geetanjali Barua, Mr. S.M. Shafiul Alam, Mr. Zonayed Ahmed, Mr. Joydip Dey, and Dr. Syed Mizanur Rahman. We also thank all the individuals and organizations involved in the successful execution of the Ethics Education Fellowship program in Bangladesh, and the teachers for their commitment and enthusiasm.
The training workshops for teachers under the Ethics Education Fellowship, concluded successfully in Indonesia, reaching 200 participants from five regions. The teachers received specialized training through engaging activities, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to implement ethics education programs in their local schools. It is estimated that these teachers will reach 1,500 students by the end of 2023.
A Collaborative and Multistakeholder Journey
Designed to strengthen the sustainable delivery of ethics education programs for children, the Fellowship invites teachers to prepare and facilitate a learning journey for children. This approach helps learners to develop positive relationships with themselves and others, engage in ethical reflection and dialogue, enhance their ability to learn to live together and develop collective actions to make positive impacts in their communities.
The Ethics Education Fellowship is being carried out simultaneously and collaboratively in Bangladesh, Indonesia, Kenya, Mauritius, Nepal, and Seychelles. The program operates on a fellowship structure, where dedicated representatives from each country play a key role. These fellows lead the national efforts by organizing training workshops for teachers, ensuring the successful implementation of ethics education programs with children, and advocating for the importance of ethics education on a national scale. Furthermore, the fellows have established a Global Community of Practice to learn from each other, collaborate and support the expansion of the program.
This program is a collaborative effort involving Arigatou International, the Guerrand-Hermès Foundation for Peace, the KAICIID International Dialogue Centre, the Muslim Council of Elders, and UNESCO, which is represented by the UNESCO Regional Office for Eastern Africa and the UNESCO New Delhi Cluster Office. The process is supported by the National Commissions for UNESCO of Indonesia and Kenya. The program is being led in each country by the ministries of education, through the fellows, a group of educators and ministry officers, that were trained as teacher trainers back in October 2022.
Empowering Teachers through Training in Indonesia
The training program for Indonesian teachers consisted of two phases. The first phase, a hybrid workshop held in Suravaya in February 2023, brought together 67 participants from various regions. Over three days, participants had the opportunity to share their experiences, discuss critical issues affecting learners, and explore the role of education in addressing these challenges. Key topics included discrimination, stereotypes, violence, and their impact on children’s lives in schools.
Participants explored the Ethics Education Conceptual Framework which is built around three pillars: Relationships, Ethical Reflection and Dialogue, and Collective Action. They reflected on what ethics means in their lives and their interactions with others, and on the ethical challenges they, the children and their communities face. While doing it, participants identified how ethics education programs can foster transformation in children by encouraging ethical reflections and engaging them in dialogue with others.
“The workshop provided extraordinary benefits to me personally. Now I better understand how an educator should be a role model for students, especially in the classroom,” said one of the teachers, while highlighting the importance of learning to respect each other, and accept our differences.
Teachers explored the alignment between the transformative pedagogy approach and the Pancasila principles of the Indonesian Constitution. They also recognized the critical significance of interreligious and intercultural dialogue and its practical implementation in the classroom.
Dr. Itje Chodidjah, Executive Chair of the Indonesian National Commission for UNESCO, Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology, Indonesia, emphasized the relevance of the Fellowship during her opening remarks at the workshop. She highlighted the program’s connection to the Pancasila ideology and expressed her commitment to supporting the Fellowship at the national level.
In May 2023, the second phase of the program took place with onsite workshops in five different regions: Sorong Regency, West Java, West Kalimantan, South Sukawesi, and East Java. These workshops focused on building teachers’ capacity to foster positive relationships and empower learners to create inclusive, respectful, and resilient societies. Teachers received guidance on implementing ethics education programs across various grade levels, from kindergarten to elementary, junior, and senior high school.
“For the Indonesian context, the workshop is very enriching because the experiences the teachers had is in line with their needs in the implementation of the Pancasila Students’ Profile Project. The workshop helped teachers understand more about ethics education, and more importantly, it enlightened them to make ethic education more visible and practical in their classroom,” shared Ms. Euis Lesmini Djuanda, School Principal and Fellow.
Looking Ahead
The trained teachers are now prepared to implement ethics education programs in their respective regions, positively influencing the lives of children in Indonesia. The Ethics Education Fellowship remains committed to its mission of nurturing global citizenship, building inclusive societies, and preparing students to tackle ethical challenges as active and responsible citizens.
Our gratitude goes to the fellows and all organizers who have supported the training program for teachers in Indonesia.
Nuestra socia Alianza por la Solidaridad tiene abiertos unos TÉRMINOS DE REFERENCIA Asistencia Técnica para diseño y ejecución de la estrategia de sensibilización y comunicación en La Rioja.
El objetivo de la consultoría es el deseño de una estrategia de sensibilización y comunicación en la Rioja, en coordinación con el equipo de comunicación de Alianza y enfocada a las mujeres y agrupaciones de mujeres en La Rioja y su participación en agendas como la igualdad de género, la justicia climática y las migraciones, además de trabajo con jóvenes.
Las acciones que se requiere realizar son:
a. Diseño de una estrategia de sensibilización y comunicación de Alianza
en La Rioja enfocada a trabajar con mujeres y jóvenes.
b. Coordinar y llevar a cabo las acciones de comunicación en el marco de
los proyectos, así como productos audiovisuales de sensibilización,
visibilidad y reporte para financiadores.
c. Elaboración de mensajes, diseño de infografías, difusión en redes
sociales y con medios de comunicación.
d. Coordinación de acciones de sensibilización lideradas por jóvenes a
través de metodologías artísticas.
4. PRODUCTOS ESPERADOS
• Diseño de estrategia de sensibilización del proyecto y su planificación en el
cronograma del proyecto 2022.
• Ejecución de las acciones planificadas en el plan de trabajo de los proyectos
2021 y 2022.
• Elaboración de materiales audiovisuales, infografías y materiales informativos.
• Fuentes de verificación de las acciones realizadas.
6. PRESUPUESTO ASIGNADO:
El presupuesto asignado para llevar a cabo el conjunto de acciones detalladas en los
presentes términos de referencia es de 6.630 euros (todos los impuestos incluidos)
Se hará el pago de manera fraccionada en base a la entrega de los productos
acordados.
7. PERFIL DE LA PERSONA CONSULTORA:
• Formación profesional en temas de comunicación (Comunicación Audiovisual,
Periodismo, Publicidad y RRPP). Se valorará formación o experiencia en áreas
sociales, derechos humanos, igualdad de género, migraciones y juventud.
• Experiencia demostrada en acciones de comunicación, visibilidad y elaboración
de materiales audiovisuales. Se valorará positivamente tener experiencia en
formación y gestión de equipos de personas, así como en procesos de
comunicación participativos y uso de metodologías artísticas para sensibilizar.
• Imprescindible tener conocimientos de programas de diseño gráfico, edición de
video y WordPress.
• Presencialidad en La Rioja.
• Se valorará conocimiento de inglés.
• Se valora conocer el tejido asociativo en La Rioja.
8. PLAZO DE PRESENTACIÓN DE PROPUESTAS:
Las Personas interesadas deben enviar su CV y una propuesta inicial de estrategia de
sensibilización y comunicación al mail: msanchez@aporsolidaridad.org indicando la
referencia “TdR Comunicación La Rioja”.
El plazo de presentación será hasta el 31 de marzo de 2023 incluido.
Arigatou International joined the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child to call for the inclusion of religious leaders and parents in training about the rights of children in the digital environment and to collaborate with them.
The statement was delivered by Ms. Emma Nowotny, Child Rights Program Officer, on 10 March 2023, during the Annual Day on Children’s Rights at the 52nd session of the Human Rights Council.
This year, the theme of the Annual Day was The Rights of the Child and the Digital Environment. Through the statement, Arigatou International called on governments, decision-makers and civil society to “invest in educational programs and spaces that empower children to take an active role in the digital environment and become positive influencers among peers.”
Human Rights Council 52nd session Annual Discussions on the Rights of the Child 10 March 2023
Distinguished panelists,
Arigatou International welcomes the discussions on child rights and the digital environment and the important views and recommendations that children shared.
In line with General comment No. 25 (2021), we call for a holistic approach to maximize the benefits and minimize the risks that the digital environment presents, to ensure that violence against children is addressed properly and mitigated.
Legal protection is crucial for a safe digital environment, but we must also prioritize combating the normalization and stigma of online violence and its intersection with other types of violence.
We, therefore, call on governments, decision-makers and civil society to:
1. Develop training for those closest to children and with the moral authority to intervene and support, namely religious leaders, parents, caregivers and educators to learn about the rights of children in the digital environment, understand the risks and linkages with other violence, recognize the early signs of child’s victimization, and reporting mechanisms. We call particular attention to the role of religious leaders in many parts of the world, who are well-positioned to influence their believers and protect children. Religious communities are the largest and most connected grassroots organizations in the world, and with an immense potential to support and influence social change.
2. Invest in educational programs and spaces that empower children to take an active role in the digital environment and become positive influencers among peers. This requires providing them with the space to take joint action to address hate speech and the spread of extreme ideologies, protect themselves against violence and abuse, speak up for others, and understand their rights, including in the digital environment. Ethics education programs that support the development of critical thinking, intercultural and interreligious competencies, and foster empathy and individual and collective responsibilities, have proved effective in empowering children and youth as agents of change.
To conclude, we invite all States and organizations present here to use a multi-sectoral approach to create synergies to develop more effective mechanisms to protect and empower children. It is our ethical responsibility to move beyond working in silos and collaborate.
Over 150 policymakers, faith actors, representatives of governments and UN agencies and other humanitarian actors got together to produce concrete policy recommendations to advance faith-sensitive mental health and psychosocial support for children on the move.
UNICEF estimates that 37 million children are on the move in the world today. Children affected by forced migration and displacement are one of the most vulnerable groups, suffering from multiple violations of their rights and experiencing stressful and traumatic conditions that have a severe impact on their psycho-social well-being.
The rapid increase in child migration in the last decade has highlighted the need to set up specific policies and frameworks to protect children on the move.
While mental health and psychosocial support of children on the move have been at the center of many effective approaches to enhance the protection and well-being of migrant children, faith-inspired psycho-social support frameworks have been largely overlooked.
“We need to meet people, children included, where they are at. We need to listen, learn, seek to understand and tailor our approaches. We need to make sure that policy leaves room for taking into consideration the religious and spiritual experience of the population in question,” stated Ms. Stephanie Shanler, Child Protection Specialist at UNICEF, during the roundtable discussion focused on Syria.
Faith-sensitive mental health and psychosocial support approaches play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of children on the move. Spiritual nurture supports children’s resilience, acting as a protective factor positively affecting trauma responses during displacement.
Three roundtable discussions dedicated to producing policy recommendations were organized between December 2022 and February 2023. The discussions focused on the countries of the Northern Triangle in Latin America (Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador), Syria and Ukraine.
“It is not ‘faith-sensitive’ in terms of knowing everything about religious expression. It is very much about listening and asking questions. So much of the guidelines (Faith-Sensitive Approach in Humanitarian Response) is about mapping, assessing, listening, identifying,” highlighted Professor Alastair Ager, Director of the Institute of Global Health and Development at Queen Margaret University, at the Roundtable focused on the Ukraine crisis.
These roundtables were organized under the umbrella of the Partnership on Religion and Sustainable Development (PaRD) and sponsored by GIZ. They were co-hosted by Arigatou International, the Institute for Global Health and Development at Queen Margaret University, the United States Institute of Peace, World Vision International, KAICIID Dialogue Center, Islamic Relief Worldwide, the Network for Traditional and Religious Peacemakers and Syria Bright Future for the roundtable in Syria.
“We recognized, as we started rolling out the program, that faith leading was needed, especially as it was one of the few positive things in a child’s life that they could hold on to, that can propel positive behavior,” said Christalle Gemon, when sharing about her experience working with children and youth at the UNDP Trinidad and Tobago Accelerator Lab.
The first phase of this project took place back in 2021 when a series of three webinars were organized for educators and policymakers working with migrants and refugees in Europe. A booklet titled Solidarity: Advancing the Role of Education in Fostering Migrant and Refugee Inclusion in Europe, was launched in November 2021 as part of the project. The booklet builds on the reflections and recommendations collected during the series of webinars.
The policy discussions helped translate the knowledge and best practices outlined in the booklet into concrete policy recommendations. A policy brief will be developed in the first half of 2023 to inform the efforts of host governments and other relevant stakeholders in supporting, adopting and implementing faith-sensitive mental health and psychosocial support approaches as part of a broader strategy to foster peacebuilding and sustaining peace.
La reunión se celebró un día después de que las direcciones autonómicas de cooperación celebraran su propio encuentro. Es la primera vez que ambos encuentros coinciden en el mismo momento y lugar, y firman una declaración conjunta.
Durante los días 28 y 29 de octubre de 2022, la Red de Coordinadoras Autonómicas de ONG de Desarrollo y con presencia de organizaciones de todos los territorios, declaramos:
Reafirmamos nuestro compromiso por seguir trabajando en red en aras de la solidaridad internacional, el apoyo mutuo y la cooperación.
Valoramos positivamente la realización del primer encuentro conjunto mantenido con las distintas Direcciones Generales de Cooperación Internacional y agencias autonómicas de los distintos gobiernos autonómicos y celebramos la declaración conjunta alcanzada.
Reclamamos, una vez más, que la política de cooperación al desarrollo sea asumida como una política pública estable dotada de recursos técnicos y económicos suficientes, en los diferentes niveles del Estado, desde el gobierno central hasta el más pequeño ayuntamiento, garantizando así una acción solidaria transformadora a medio y largo plazo, al margen de cambios electorales.
Instamos al Gobierno de España, en el marco final del proceso de tramitación de la nueva ley, al reconocimiento del valor específico que aporta la cooperación descentralizada (cercanía a la población, bagaje internacional y experiencia acumulada…) y a mejorar la participación activa de los diversos actores de la cooperación descentralizada en la planificación de la política de cooperación estatal y potenciar la Comisión Interterritorial como órgano de coordinación política.
Subrayamos el potencial de la cooperación descentralizada a la hora de hacer frente a los crecientes y peligrosos discursos de odio, sobre todo, a través de la promoción de la Educación para el Desarrollo y la Ciudadanía Global (EpDCG), contribuyendo así a la construcción de una ciudadanía global crítica y activa que actúe a favor de la justicia social y la equidad en el mundo. Instamos, a las administraciones a reforzar los instrumentos financieros necesarios para desarrollar de manera eficiente esta herramienta.
Consideramos necesario impulsar y defender la cooperación internacional desde los municipios, diputaciones, cabildos así como sus herramientas y programas específicos. Por ello, seguiremos trabajando en red para incidir en el diseño de las políticas públicas de las próximas legislaturas.
Insistimos, en este contexto de guerra en Ucrania y de múltiples conflictos olvidados, en la defensa de una política de emergencia, humanitaria, de refugio y protección internacional que no genere diferencias según sea la procedencia de las personas. Así como en la necesidad de potenciar la Educación y la Cultura de Paz.
Expresamos nuestro apoyo y solidaridad a las coordinadoras autonómicas que están padeciendo la tensión institucional y los recortes derivados del desmantelamiento de las políticas sociales. Desde la Red vamos a establecer los mecanismos de colaboración y de apoyo a la Coordinadora Andaluza de ONGD para mantener su defensa de la cooperación y de la participación ciudadana organizada.
Insistimos en la necesidad de un incremento gradual, pero urgente, del presupuesto de los gobiernos municipales y autonómicos destinado a las políticas de cooperación, marcando como objetivo alcanzar el 0,7% del presupuesto antes de 2030, en coherencia con los acuerdos internacionales. Solo con recursos adecuados en cantidad y con calidad es posible poner en práctica el compromiso y la solidaridad para luchar contra las desigualdades y hacer frente a la emergencia climática en el planeta.
Aquest 16 d’octubre vam poder gaudir al Cercle Català de Madrid, de la presència, el talent i la bonhomia d’en Josep Maria Flotats, actor i director català, guanyador del nostre Premi Santiago Rusiñol 2022, que li va ser lliurat per la nostra estimada Julieta Serrano (premi Santiago Rusiñol de l’edició anterior) amb una la Gala a tal efecte celebrada diumenge passat durant el Dinar Commemoratiu del 70è aniversari del Cercle.
No podia faltar a la Gala la nostra també molt estimada i gran amiga del Cercle des de fa molts anys, i bona amiga d’en Josep Maria Flotats i de Julieta Serrano, la gran Núria Espert. La dama del teatre català i espanyol, a qui el Cercle va premiar ara fa tot just 40 anys com a Catalana de l’Any 1982 i a qui ahir, en primícia, li vam anunciar públicament la concessió del Premi Santiago Rusiñol 2023 (el qual li lliurarem per Sant Jordi de l’any vinent dins la Festa Major del Cercle)
La gala -presentada per l’actor Pep Planas i amenitzada per la cantautora Marta Shanti i en Dídac Santisteban a la guitarra amb cançons vibrants i amb molta força, com ara “Terra”, “Dolça”, “Blau”, “Muntanya”, “Tramuntana” o l’emocionant i solemne “Lliures” i que van aixecar el públic- representa el nostre més sentit homenatge a la Cultura Catalana i al TEATRE amb majúscules, representat per la figura d’en Josep Maria Flotats, de qui en Pep Planas va fer una crònica biogràfica molt entranyable i personal, repassant les seves fites més importants, la seva trajectoria internacional i nacional, a Madrid i a Barcelona al TNC, les seves virtuts, les seves adorables manies, i la seva inconfusible i elegant manera de treballar i de relacionar-se amb els actors i actrius, companys de feina, que l’han acompanyat indirectament o directa, al llarg de la seva dilatada carrera, alguns dels quals ens acompanyaven al dinar com ara Ariadna Gil, Carme Conesa; i també Sílvia Marsó, gran amiga i assídua del Cercle; excusant la seva presència Anabel Alonso, Carlos Hipólito i Mapi Sagaseta als quals compromisos professionals d’ultimíssima hora i causes de força major els van impedir acompanyar-nos-hi en el darrer moment.
Especialment emotius els parlaments d’en J.M. Flotats, tot recitant Josep Pla i recordant que tot just un 16 d’octubre de fa ara 32 anys, pre-estrenava al Poliorama de Barcelona la seva obra (basada en Pla)Ara que els ametllers ja estan batuts. Molt emotives també les paraules de Julieta Serrano i molt sentides les de Núria Espert en rebre la notícia (i un ram de flors) pel seu nomenament com a Premi Santiago Rusiñol 2023
El nostre president en Josep Ramon Casas, va recordar moments claus de la història del Cercle com la visita de Josep Ma. Tarradellas al 1977 tot justa abans de pronunciar la seva famosa frase “Ja sóc aquí” i que va dir del Cercle: “És la primera terra catalana que trepitjo en tornar de l’exili”; o com ara l’atac terrorista que va patir la nostra seu on va morir un soci, amic i treballador. En va acompanyar també un dels 4 expresidents encara vius de l’entitat, el Sr. Ignasi Buqueras (president 1980-1984) qui va lliurar al Cercle dos llibres un dels quals explica la història d’aquesta casa des dels seus orígens.
Comunicadors com en Jordi Basté, o el president de la Federació de Grups Amateurs de Teatre de Catalunya, el Sr. Antoni Font i Selva, ens van enviar una salutació especial i els seus bons desitjos. Així com la Delegada del Govern de la Generalitat a Madrid, la Sra. Ester Capella qui no va poder assistir-hi per incompatibilitat d’agenda, però que va voler ser-hi present amb una carta que en Josep Ramon Casas, el nostre president, va llegir als assistents.
Una gala compartida amb socis i amics del Cercle, i gent vinguda també d’arreu de Catalunya que van voler gaudir amb nosaltres aquest 70è aniversari i aquest premi tan especial. Una gala que va recórrer els 70 anys de vida del Cercle, 70 anys que es plasmaran a una exposició fotogràfica commemorativa i que esperem inaugurar aquesta tardor, de la qual vam poder veure un petit tast a tall de tràiler durant el dinar i que us deixem aquí.
En acabar vam fer un brindis encoratjant-nos a continuar celebrant encara 70 anys més de Cercle i moltes més Gales atorgant Premis Santiago Rusiñol al bo i millor de la Cultura Catalana a Madrid!
Ens veiem al Cercle!
@ Fotos de Juanma Ferreira, Manel Feixes & Belén M. Martinez (CCM)
A group of 14 educators and representatives of organizations participated in a training workshop on the Learning to Live Together program in Guatemala.
The workshop was held in a blended format in Guatemala City on 9, 10, 11 and 13 May 2022. The activity sought to train facilitators belonging to Puerta de Esperanza, Fe y Alegría and ODHAG, both members of the Global Network of Religions for Children (GNRC) in Guatemala.
During the workshop, the participants were able to become familiar with the main concepts of the Learning to Live Together program, its methodologies and its educational approach. “I found particularly interesting that with this approach children are at the center. It reflects on their realities, it provokes transformation,” asserted a participant.
The participants reflected on the violence that affects children and adolescents in the contexts in which they work, and the role that values-based education can play in promoting peace and resilience. “Educating is not just being in front of a group of students, but living together in unity and fraternity,” shared another participant at the end of the workshop.
The workshop is part of a project carried out by Puerta de Esperanza with the support of Toybox, an international NGO that has been working for more than 25 years to help children and young people around the world get off the streets. The project aims to strengthen the protection and resilience factors in children and adolescents who work, live or operate in the “Mercado La Terminal, zone 4” of Guatemala City, through the implementation of Learning to Live Together and its transformative pedagogy.
We thank the facilitators and participants for their commitment and enthusiasm. We hope that this training workshop can provide a basis for the implementation of the project with the children of Guatemala.
Inscriu-te a una de les sessions informatives virtuals de VxL, a través de la plataforma Teams.
I, si t’agrada la proposta, et pots inscriure al programa per tenir una parella lingüística virtual.
Propera sessió informativa virtual el 25 de maig a les 16h.
Ms. Maria Lucia Uribe, Executive Director, Arigatou International Geneva, was invited to take part in The Convergence of Science and Theology: Activating the Church to invest in young children globally. The colloquium was held from 25-26 April 2022 and organized by the University of Notre Dame’s Global Center for the Development of the Whole Child (GC-DWC).
The Convergence of Science and Theology colloquium will advance a theological and scientific basis for integrating early childhood care and education into faith-based systems and for sharing and synthesizing lessons learned to date. Participants examined how faith-based systems can be used as effective and scalable change-drivers to increase equitable access to early childhood development and learning opportunities in low-resource countries.
This year’s colloquium focused on the Catholic parish as the unit of change. Global invitees included clergy, academics, and practitioners. This conference focused on bringing together theological and scientific knowledge about early childhood development with parish-based programs working in the home, church, and school to improve outcomes for young children.
Ms. Uribe was invited to share the work of the International Consortium on Nurturing Values and Spirituality in Early Childhood for the Prevention of Violence during the opening ceremony of the colloquium.
Ms. Uribe presented the toolkit on Nurturing the Spiritual Development of Children in the Early Years, its process of development and how it aims to support violence prevention and children’s holistic well-being. The toolkit is meant for faith communities and faith-based organizations to support caregivers in promoting nurturing care and positive parenting practices through play, positive experiences, and safe and empowering environments. She shared that the toolkit will be launched at the end of 2022, allowing its scale-up through the major faith-based organizations in the world and in collaboration with international organizations such as UNICEF and many other partners.
Ms. Uribe explored opportunities for collaboration with the Global Center for the Development of the Whole Child in the framework of the development of the toolkit as well as possibilities to join efforts with other organizations to pilot the implementation in 2023.
The meeting ended with concrete ideas and reflections on research, policy, advocacy and program implementation to activate the role of faith actors in investing in early childhood development and education for children.
We thank the Global Center for the invitation and the opportunity to collaborate.
