About Us

Our Story

Since its establishment in 2006, the Ubuntu Network has been promoting development education, education for sustainable development (ESD), and global citizenship education (GCE) among post-primary teacher educators in Ireland. It is funded by Irish Aid, Department of Foreign Affairs.

The term ‘Ubuntu’ itself is an African concept describing the essential bond of sharing which connects all humanity. We promote quality teaching, learning, and assessment by fostering collaboration, professional relationships, knowledge sharing, peer learning, dialogue, reflection, and research-informed practice.

OUR MISSION

To be leaders in GCE in post-primary ITE, leading the way through creative and transformative pedagogical approaches, evidence-based practice and peer professional learning

OUR VISION

To be leaders in GCE in post-primary ITE, leading the way through creative and transformative pedagogical approaches, evidence-based practice and peer professional learning

UBUNTU’S CORE VALUES

Social Justice

A society where people share a common humanity, have a right to equitable treatment, support for their human rights, and a fair allocation of community resources.

Inclusion

A society where people are valued, where diversity is considered a strength, and where everyone’s contribution is welcomed and respected, without prejudice or discrimination.

Sustainability

A society concerned with the stewardship of the natural environment and awareness of the Earth’s limited carrying capacity, focused on intergenerational responsibilities.

Responsibility

A society where people act with agency for transformation at local, community, national, and international levels.

We Work With

Higher Education Institution Members

NGO Members

WE ALSO COLLABORATE WITH

Faculty members involved in ITE in HEIs

School placement tutors and treoraithe (co-operating teachers)

Goverment departments and agencies that promote and support GCE in Ireland

Our Operating Principles

The Ubuntu Network’s operations are characterised by the following principles:

We work as a community of educators

Fostering a supportive and collegial network of educators with a shared passion for embedding GCE in ITE. Our strength is in our members and the variety of experience, perspectives, and specialist disciplinary knowledge that they bring to the collective.

We care about people and the planet

We are motivated by our collective sense of care for people across our world particularly those who fall victim to inequality and injustice, while also recognising the fragility of ecological systems and the urgency of action for environmental conservation.

We strive for
excellence

Drawing on experience and evidence to inform pedagogy and practice that is effective and transformative. We acknowledge the challenges of teaching for global citizenship and the need to continually adapt and critically reflect to enhance our work.

Meet Our Team

Deirdre Hogan

Project Co-ordinator

Dr Joanne O’Flaherty

Academic Co-ordinator

Teja Solar

Media & Communications Officer