International Day of Education: From Global Partnerships to Local Impact

Today, we recognize International Day of Education, a moment to celebrate the power of learning, collaboration, and global partnership.

We are proud to work alongside international partners, educators, and institutions who help shape meaningful, inclusive, and impactful educational experiences. Through shared knowledge, cultural exchange, and mutual learning, these collaborations continue to strengthen our community and expand what’s possible in education.

Over the past year, we’ve been grateful to connect through initiatives such as our Summer program and the return of Tsuru University student teachers. These experiences build on earlier collaborations, including partnerships with institutions in Madrid and Hong Kong, and reflect the many international relationships we have cultivated since 1999.

The success of these programs is made possible through the ongoing support of our local collaborators, who regularly welcome and host international groups. We are thankful to our partners in the Burnaby North Secondary School, Byrne Creek Community School, University Highlands Elementary, and Suncrest Elementary

We also value the contributions of community partners such as  Mossom Creek Hatchery & Education Centre, Grouse Mountain Education Program, and Science World, whose programming enriches learning through place-based and experiential education.

Within SFU, we are grateful for the collaboration and support of SFU International and SFU Residence and Housing, as well as our homestay partner First Choice International Placement Inc., who help ensure that international participants feel welcomed, supported, and connected throughout their experience.

Together, these global and local partnerships reflect a shared commitment to education that is inclusive, collaborative, and grounded in mutual respect.

Thank you to our partners, visitors, and collaborators, locally and around the world, for helping us learn, grow, and lead together.