Youth are the Agents of Change

“Youth are the agents of change” was the main message of Ban Ki-Moon at the United Nations Youth delegate programme (UNYDP) launch at Iveagh House/Department of Foreign Affairs on the 26th Of May 2015. While the main focus of the event was the new UNYDP for Ireland, the new Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were also discussed focusing on the substantial role that young people will play in the future success of these goals over the next 15 years. Along with the UNYDP launch Ireland will also play an important role in chairing negotiations of the SDGs along with Kenya at the UN in New York, adding to the poignancy of the event.

Minister for development and Trade, Sean Sherlock was in attendance and touched on both the global challenges faced by young people and the importance of the UNYDP, like Ban Ki-moon he also expressed the importance of youth and their connection with the wider world. Ban Ki-moon, being so passionate about youth issues, has made it one of his top 5 priorities, even enlisting a special envoy on youth. He is aware of how youth have been disproportionally effected by the economic downturn in terms of both youth unemployment and violence. He is aware of Ireland’s great contribution to in helping the world become a more equal and sustainable place focusing on the recently passed Marriage equality referendum and the presidential age referendum. Expressing delight and disappointment at the results. While the SDGs were the main topic of the event youth issues were highlighted throughout. “Promise not peril” was stressed as it is promised that youth unemployment will be tackled with decent jobs and opportunities being of the utmost importance. A similar message to that of the Young Global Advocates at Challenging the Crisis.

Evanna Lynch and Donnacha O’Callaghan were also representing UNICEF Ireland as Ambassadors sharing their experiences, speaking of the vast inequalities and the great injustices that they have witnessed during their travels. Highlighting how similar children are and that young people around the world have the same dreams no matter where they are from.

Rebecca Amet is a Young Global advocate with Challenging the Crisis. Rebecca attended the event on behalf of Challenging the Crisis Ireland.

Code Network Meeting November 2025

September 17, 2025
Date: Wednesday 26 November, 10.00am – 3.30pm Location: Richmond Barracks, Inchicore, Dublin 8, D08 YY05 IDEA is looking forward to welcoming all members of the Code of Good Practice for Development Education to our next Code network meeting on Wednesday, 26 November, in Richmond Barracks in Inchicore, Dublin. There are places for two representatives (staff, volunteers, etc.) from each Code member. One of the commitments in joining the Code is to contribute to the Community of Practice for this Code, including sharing successes and learning with other Code members and attending at least one of two Code network meetings annually. Register below!

Global Citizenship Education in Ireland to 2030 - Launch of IDEA´s new vision document

September 12, 2025
Over the past few months, IDEA and its members co-created a new strategic vision and roadmap for GCE in Ireland for the next five years. This is the successor to Vision 2025 and is called Vision 2030. We are delighted to announce that we will launch the publication of Vision 2030 on Tuesday 21 October 2025 in the Georgian Suite of Buswells Hotel, 23-27 Molesworth Street, Dublin 2, 12 noon – 12.45pm. Refreshments will be provided. Please save the date and register below for the event. Please note that there is limited space at this event and places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Once capacity has been reached, a waiting list will be opened.

We’re Hiring - Capacity Development Programme Manager

September 12, 2025
We’re Hiring - Capacity Development Programme Manager The Irish Development Education Association (IDEA) is looking for a Capacity Development Programme Manager to join our team. This is a unique leadership opportunity to help shape the future of Global Citizenship Education (GCE) in Ireland and beyond. At IDEA, we work with over 100 members, from large NGOs like Trócaire and Concern to smaller organisations and individual educators, all committed to building a more just, equal, and sustainable world. The Capacity Development Programme Manager role is central to this mission. Key role responsibilities: Lead IDEA’s capacity development programme , ensuring our members and the wider sector have access to high-quality training, workshops, and networking opportunities. Design and deliver flagship events , including our annual conference, webinars, and seminars that strengthen skills, knowledge, and collaboration. Drive innovation and impact , ensuring our programmes respond to members’ needs, emerging challenges, and international best practice. Champion impact measurement and research , supporting our members to demonstrate the transformative power of Development and Global Citizenship Education. Collaborate across IDEA teams on policy, advocacy, and communications, ensuring capacity-building directly contributes to systemic change. Represent IDEA nationally and internationally , ensuring Ireland continues to be seen as a leader in the global conversation on education, equality, and sustainability. The role offers: A permanent contract (subject to funding) Hybrid working based in Dublin city centre Competitive salary, employer pension contribution and 25 days annual leave The opportunity to work at the heart of a dynamic national network with strong international links If you are an experienced leader with a passion for education, social justice, and building the capacity of civil society, this could be the role for you. Deadline for applications is Monday, 13 October, 5.00pm. Interviews: Week commencing 20 October 2025 For the full role description and application process, please download the Job Specification here