Advancing Global Citizenship Through Transformative Education

Learn to Change

Since 2015, Umbaja has been a proud co-founder and active member of the Learn2Change – Global Network of Educational Activists, a collaborative alliance committed to using education as a catalyst for social transformation, global justice, and sustainability. In partnership with the Association of Lower Saxony Education Initiatives (VNB), Umbaja plays a vital role in delivering community-rooted educational programs that empower migrants, youth, and civil society actors, both in Sudan and across the Sudanese diaspora.

Our shared mission is rooted in the belief that education can—and must—serve as a powerful instrument for change, particularly for those whose voices are often marginalized. Through innovative methodologies, intercultural dialogue, and hands-on training, Umbaja delivers continuous learning opportunities that address the complexities of our interconnected world and support individuals in becoming active global citizens.

A Platform for Change

As an engaged partner within the VNB network, Umbaja plays a central role in the training and development of multipliers—educators, community leaders, and youth facilitators—especially in areas where democracy, sustainability, migration, and social justice intersect. These efforts are grounded in both theory and practice, combining critical inquiry with hands-on, action-oriented learning.

Through this collaboration, we aim to:

Strengthen the voices and capacities of migrant communities.
Foster intercultural understanding and solidarity.
Support local-to-global actions for ecological, social, and economic justice.
Promote a vision of education that is democratic, inclusive, and future-oriented.

Publications and Knowledge Production

Umbaja has contributed to several landmark publications within the Learn2Change network—tools that have become invaluable resources for educators and change-makers worldwide:

Learn2Change: Changing the World Through Education – A compelling collection of perspectives and practices that highlight the transformative power of education.

Connect for Change: Shaping Global Educational Partnerships and Projects for Change – A practical handbook for designing impactful and equitable international partnerships.

Educational Philosophy and Curriculum

Umbaja’s work within Learn2Change is grounded in a dynamic curriculum that reflects the realities, aspirations, and challenges of communities around the world. Together, we explore the following themes:

Learn to Change
We begin with the core question: How do people across the globe wish to live—today and in the future? This foundational module invites learners to reflect on their realities and aspirations while examining local and global challenges.

Global Learning
As an educational approach, global learning connects personal experience to broader global systems. It fosters critical thinking, solidarity, and the ability to act responsibly in an interconnected world.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
We explore the UN's 17 SDGs as a universal roadmap for peace, prosperity, and planetary health—emphasizing the urgent need for inclusive, sustainable solutions to the most pressing global issues.

Climate and Energy
This module examines the vital relationship between energy consumption and climate change, while empowering learners to take climate-conscious actions and advocate for environmental justice.

Colonialism and Education
We critically unpack the legacies of colonialism and their enduring effects on societies and education systems today, with a focus on decolonial pedagogies and inclusive knowledge practices.

Prejudice, Stereotypes, and Racism
Through honest dialogue and critical reflection, this component addresses the daily realities of discrimination and provides tools to confront and dismantle systemic racism in all its forms.

Equality and Diversity
All people are different—and all are equal. We emphasize the importance of embracing gender, cultural, and identity diversity, while promoting human rights and equity for all.

Environment and Poverty
We explore the deep interlinkages between environmental degradation and economic inequality, highlighting how unsustainable growth can widen the gap between rich and poor.

Rights and Democracy
Democracy is more than a system—it is a practice rooted in human dignity and universal rights. This module explores how democratic values and human rights can be protected and advanced at both local and global levels.

Community Work
Grounded in social work theory, this module supports learners in building stronger, more resilient communities through collaborative action, empowerment, and participatory development.