Event ID: 12 Title: Empowering Student-Led Exchanges in UNESCO Biosphere Reserves and Geoparks: A Low-Burden, High-Impact Model for Sustainability Education
This conference discussion will introduce a pioneering, student-led framework for exchanges in UNESCO Biosphere Reserves and Global Geoparks. It explores how low-burden, high-impact mobility programs can advance sustainability education through field-based, intercultural, and experiential learning. Participants will discuss a new educational model for youth exchange — co-designed by educators, site managers, and youth, and contribute ideas for scaling it across the MAB and Geopark networks by 2030.
| Preliminary Agenda | ||
|---|---|---|
| Time | Content | Speaker |
| 13:15-13:35 | Dr. Mammadova specializes in intergenerational learning and sustainable development, with extensive research on Biosphere Reserves and Geoparks. She coordinates the development of the new student mobility and exchange framework. | Dr. Aida Mammadova – UNESCO Chair, Kanazawa University, Japan (Moderator & Framework Coordinator) |
| 13:35-13:50 | Dr. Matias is a Professor for ecosystem-based transformation management in UNESCO Biosphere Reserves. She brings new perspectives and experience in co-developing youth engagement programs inside Biosphere Reserves. | Dr. Denise Margaret Matias – Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development, Germany |
| 13:50-14:05 | Ms. Roth represents MAB France and contributes expertise on Biosphere Reserve networks, youth involvement, and community-based sustainability initiatives. | Ms. Alice Roth - MAB France |
| 14:05-14:20 | Mr. Monden has participated in international student exchanges within Biosphere Reserves and will share first-hand experiences of field-based, intercultural learning and youth-led collaboration. | Mr. Monden Saku - Student, Ehime University, Japan |
| 14:20-14:45 | Discussions with the side-event participants and youth | |
