The “UN Sustainable Development Youth Empowerment Program for Junior High School Students in Jing’an District—Global Heroes of the Planet” Course is in full swing. Through learning in the previous stage, students acquired the important insight that the challenges we face in the world are interconnected. It became evident that collective effort is crucial in solving problems and understanding how our actions impact others. Furthermore, they gained knowledge about the disturbances occurring on our planet and the diverse external factors influencing them. Regardless of the obstacles encountered, students realized that as “Global Heroes of the Planet”, they possessed the ability to overcome these challenges through meticulous planning and the implementation of effective strategies. By doing so, they can effectively convey a positive and meaningful message to inspire individuals to contribute towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Last class, Ms. Yueliang posed a question worth pondering: Are we born equal? Unexpectedly, most of the students had negative opinions. The students engaged in a dynamic and thoughtful conversation regarding a harmonious and fair future, while also delving into the SDGs. Of particular interest were Goal 5—Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls, and Goal 17—Revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development. The students not only practiced their English skills but also gained an understanding of how to translate the concept of inequality from their own perspectives.

After watching a video about gender equality, the students asked the following questions: How can we build a peaceful and equal future? What should we do when some people are unable to access the rights, resources, or opportunities shared by others? Are women and men currently treated equally?

The matter of treating men and women equally is consistently a topical issue in the real world. Everyone desires a more equitable and just world, but have we really achieved it? Perhaps, we need to start by addressing the small things around us. For example, we should realize equality between men and women in the family and non-discrimination at work. As “Global Heroes of the Planet”, we should join hands and strive for real equality.

Through games, the teacher asked the students if they had ever witnessed someone being isolated or treated differently because of something. Or have they experienced it themselves?

We often encounter people who are isolated or treated differently perhaps because of gender, color, religion, and other factors. In the classroom, some students said they experienced the feeling of being excluded, which can be immensely lonely and distressing.

How can we stop this cycle of isolation and inequality from continuing? Through the discussion, the students started to reflect on the idea that everyone deserves to be treated equally, respected, and loved. Let’s work together to extend a helping hand to those who are isolated and treated differently, offering them warmth and assistance.

The students learned about Good Business and understood the meaning of Sustainable Development around UN SDGs 8, 9, 11, and 12. Some students said that it represents the need for us to prepare for the future, to protect our planet and its resources. Other students suggested that we should start with small actions, such as reducing waste, choosing eco-friendly products, and promoting renewable energy. Each of us can contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle through small acts of kindness.

In the final activity and reflection session, the Build a City part (building cities in different ways) “ignited” the enthusiasm of the classroom. The students used spaghetti and the only tool (masking glue) to build a structure as high as possible. Through the activity, they not only cultivated a teamwork spirit but also felt the charm of creation.

The game of building a city triggered the fighting spirit of students in every team, as they relentlessly tackled this intriguing challenge. With previous building experience, the students were eager to try using spaghetti to create a unique city. The two teams with vertical heights of 82 cm and 83 cm respectively obtained the final victory in the end.

Just like how every seed can blossom into a beautiful flower, we should never underestimate the power of an individual, for each and every one of us is a “Global Hero of the Planet”.