TU Dublin Showcases Student Innovation in Sustainability at Global Early Childhood Education Conference
The School of Social Sciences, Law, and Education, TU Dublin joined the 77th OMEP World Assembly and Conference, held in Bologna, Italy, from 14–18 July 2025.
Lecturer Margaret O'Donoghue proudly represented the University, presenting on 'Sustainability in Early Childhood Education Today' and highlighting the inspiring work of TU Dublin’s Early Childhood Education and Care (TU790) final-year students. The conference, themed 'Arts and Culture in Early Childhood Education: Play, Expression and Participation,' brought together global leaders in early childhood education to explore creative and inclusive approaches to learning.
Margaret’s presentation focused on a student-led sustainability resource developed in Semester 1 of the 2024/2025 academic year. Designed as a practical booklet for use during work placements, the resource introduces young children to sustainability concepts, links to the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, and aligns with national frameworks such as Aistear and the Aistear Síolta Practice Guide. Their initiative also aligns with the EU’s GreenComp framework, fostering key sustainability competences such as Embodying sustainability values, Envisioning sustainable futures and Acting for sustainability.
The resource is available in print and online, supporting TU Dublin’s commitment to embedding sustainability across teaching and learning, and empowering future educators to lead change.
Embedding sustainability into society through education requires action across all areas of TU Dublin. The University is committed to creating a culture of inclusion, where everyone has equitable access to and participation in higher education. TU Dublin’s Sustainability Education team, in collaboration with faculty staff, continues to build capacity within the University community to respond justly to global challenges, through a diverse and engaged network of learners, educators, researchers, and administrators.