The Department of Education and Skills, hosted the Second National Forum on Education for Sustainable Development on the 1st December 2016.

Welcoming the Forum, Minister for Education and Skills, Richard Bruton TD, said "Today's Forum is an opportunity to take stock of current themes in Education for Sustainable Development, notably the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals, and to continue to raise awareness of this key area. The publication of Ireland's National Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development 2014 - 2020 was a significant development and ensured that the Department of Education and Skills took a leadership role in the area of Education for Sustainable Development. Our Strategy is a key pillar of the Government's overarching 'Our Sustainable Future' which was launched in 2012.

Participants at the Forum were entertained by young Rappers from Scoil Íosagáin in Farranree, Cork City. They also represent Music Generation Cork City. Their own original rap "Throw it in the Bin" looked at the environmental consequences of litter and highlighted the importance of sustainability in their own locality.

View / Read the Presentations...

• Speech by Seán Ó Foghlú, Secretary General, Department of Education and Skills, for the Opening of the Forum on Education for Sustainable Development.
• Report on a Consultation with Children and Young People on Education for Sustainable Development. 

by Gary Fowlie, United Nations Focal Point on Technology for Development, with a contribution from Ireland's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador David Donoghue.

by Dr. Deirdre McGillicuddy, Lecturer in Education, Marino Institute of Education.