Introduction to Global Issues Courses (18 Feb – 25 Mar)
The STAND Introduction to Global Issues Courses return this spring in an in person format at University College Cork (18 Feb – 25 Mar) and the University of Galway (23 Feb – 30 Mar).
These 6-week, part-time courses invite students to explore pressing global challenges, from inequality and climate justice to power and development, going beyond the headlines to understand their root causes. Through interactive learning and expert facilitation, participants gain practical tools, earn a recognised certificate, and join a community of like-minded changemakers ready to take meaningful action in their studies and beyond.
What past participants said:
"What made the course truly valuable was the way it created a safe and supportive space for discussion. It didn’t just present global issues in theory, it encouraged us to connect them to our personal stories, identities, and emotions. This made the learning more real and transformative."
"I found the content incredibly insightful, and I was pleasantly surprised by how closely many of the topics aligned with my MA studies. This connection made the learning even more meaningful and relevant to my academic journey."
"It reminded me that even when the world feels heavy, people still have the capacity to care deeply for one another, and that sense of shared humanity is something I will carry forward beyond this course"
Fee and discounts
Thanks to the support of Irish Aid, the courses are highly subsidised. The normal cost would be €25, but we don’t want the cost to be a barrier. We have some discount codes and free spaces available for people who might need it. Simply contact Charlotte in confidence at charlotte@stand.ie.
FIND OUT MORE AND REGISTER HERE: https://stand.ie/what-we-do/global-issues-courses
Topics and facilitators
- Setting the Scene: What If... We Cared? Kick off the course with a session that asks the big questions about why global issues matter beyond the headlines and statistics. You’ll start thinking about how interconnected challenges like inequality and justice shape our world and consider your own values and role within it. This session is all about reflection, awareness, and beginning your journey with purpose.
- Environment: What If… It’s Never Too Late? Dive into conversations about climate justice with ecologist and environmental educator Irene Ní Shúilleabháin. This session explores how environmental movements have fought for people and the planet and why it’s still possible to build hopeful, sustainable futures. You’ll leave with inspiration and ideas for action you can take now.
- Economics: What If...We Redesigned How We Share the World’s Stuff? Join Vicky Donnelly to unpack systems like capitalism, colonialism, and economic inequality. This workshop challenges you to think about who benefits from the current economic system and to imagine alternative approaches that centre people and the planet instead of profit.
- Decolonialism: What If… We Could See the Hidden Empires Shaping Our Lives? With facilitator Aleesha Wiegandt, explore how colonial power continues to shape global relations today. Using creative and visual learning methods, you’ll look at everything from corporate influence to neo‑colonial systems, helping you build a deeper understanding of solidarity and global justice.
- UCC Exclusive — SDG Game: What If… We Could Experience the World We’re Trying to Create? This interactive session led by David Nyaluke puts you in the driver’s seat to explore the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Through a hands‑on simulation, you’ll work with peers to understand complex systems and build confidence in your ability to shape real change.
- Action & Imagination: What If… We Build Better Futures Together? In the final session, participants come together to reflect on what they’ve learned, connect creatively, and dream up hopeful future possibilities. This workshop celebrates imagination as a tool for change and plants seeds for the action you’ll take next.
REGISTER NOW: https://form.jotform.com/260123035313036