International Day of Education with SFU Faculty of Education

This year, the International Day of Education emphasizes "Good Schools Need Good School Leaders," highlighting the critical role of leadership in ensuring quality education for all. Effective leadership—from individual schools to governmental levels—is recognized as one of the most significant factors influencing student outcomes.

Our contribution toward this objective is reflected in the diverse programs, research, and community partnerships that the Faculty of Education champions. These initiatives include the Faculty's Office of International Education, which fosters international and intercultural understanding. Through our collaborations, we emphasize sustainability, ethical practice, and reciprocity while aligning with our Faculty’s core pillars: Indigeneity, equity, and a culture of inquiry. In addition, we support the Scholars at Risk network, aiding displaced academics like Dr. Ayan Zahir, an Education Adjunct Professor, in regaining professional affiliations and contributing meaningfully to the global academic community. 

International Education

Explore how partnerships between SFU and international education institutions foster global collaboration, including a recent visit from Hong Kong and Madrid students. 

Supporting Scholars at Risk

*To protect their safety and privacy, we have changed Dr. Zahir's name.

SFU has proudly supported the Scholars at Risk network since joining in 2017, including displaced academics like Dr. Ayan Zahir (a pseudonym*) granting him adjunct status in the Faculty of Education. This status enabled Dr. Zahir to apply for SSHRC grants in Canada, restoring his academic affiliation and allowing him to lead impactful research. Together with the support of Dr. Robert Williamson, he is co-authoring an SSHRC Connection Grant proposal to host a hybrid colloquium for displaced Afghan scholars, fostering global academic collaborations.

We invite you to read a guest blog from Dr. Zahir, shedding light on the pressing challenges faced by Afghan scholars and the urgent need for collective action.

Looking Ahead

As we continue to champion educational leadership and global collaboration, the Faculty of Education is excited to build on our international partnerships and initiatives through the Faculty's Office of International Education in 2025:

• Welcoming Education Students from Tsuru University, Japan: In this three-week program, aspiring teachers will enhance their English language proficiency, deepen their intercultural understanding, and gain hands-on experience in inquiry-based and learner-centred teaching practices. 

• Sending SFU Students to Oaxaca, Mexico: Through the International Teacher Education Module (ITEM), SFU students will engage with diverse educational systems and gain firsthand experience in culturally responsive teaching practices. This program reflects the Faculty's commitment to preparing globally minded educators who can navigate diverse learning environments.

• In the Process of Finalizing a Program to Host 50 Secondary School English Teachers from Taiwan: In collaboration with National Taiwan Normal University, this proposed program aims to equip educators with advanced teaching methodologies and strategies for fostering bilingual education excellence. Participants will also have the opportunity to gain insights into Canadian educational practices through workshops and interactive sessions.

• Continuing Global Collaborations: The Faculty remains dedicated to fostering partnerships with institutions, researchers, and educators worldwide. By emphasizing mutual learning and shared goals, we aim to drive innovative educational solutions and empower leaders to address global educational challenges.