After the final presentations, the students were asked to watch the recordings of other groups’ presentations and vote for the best performing group. Those groups that had been selected by the voting were also interviewed to discuss their experiences in the program. They were asked how they found it working independently in groups for 2 weeks only meeting virtually, the most memorable event in the program, their goals for the future based on the experience.

Some students pointed out the importance of asking questions and for help, and being open minded and respectful to different ideas. Moreover, some students remarked that they realized how their backgrounds can make out their own biases, and the program made them be more aware of things that had always been in the back of their mind but never been consciously aware and realize the SDGs are issues that are needed to be addressed and taken actions on.

 

Student voices: 

“The most memorable event in the program for me was the fact that it made me rethink a lot more. I joined the program with certain opinions but it provided me with opportunities to think more critically, and more reflective about my ways of thinking. ”

 

“Realizing how our own backgrounds can make out our own biases helped not only in terms of my own perspectives but also to help the group understand each other and communicate better.”

“This program made me think about things that may have always been in the back of your mind but you don’t really think about. This program helped everyone in a way to  realize that SDGs are issues that we actually need to address and take actions on.”

 

“This program was a huge stepping stone for me. It made me know more about my country and others, and realize that SDGs are what we need to work on.”

 

“The program provided awareness to people. I believe that what is harder to deal with is ignorance than the problem itself. This is a great program that could create a ripple effect for the future especially for saving our planet. And this is a way for us to be united. Achieving the goals would be impossible without us being united with each other.”