What is EFDD asbl?
EFDD asbl is a Belgian French-speaking non-profit organization, born in May 2014, that brings together about twenty passionate field actors. Their mission? To promote education and training for sustainable development across French and German-speaking Belgium. These folks—teachers, directors, facilitators, trainers—come from all networks and levels, uniting their decades of experience to create a hub of expertise, sharing, and exchange. Simply put, EFDD supports secondary and higher education institutions in their journey toward more sustainable development. It’s all about making education a powerful tool for change.
Main Benefits of EFDD’s Work
EFDD’s impact is clear and measurable. Here are some key facts that highlight their role:
- Founded in 2014, bringing together around 20 dedicated professionals.
- Focuses on both French and German-speaking regions of Belgium.
- Supports secondary schools and higher education institutions in sustainable development transitions.
- Led by experienced coordinators and educators with backgrounds in communication, sociology, environmental management, and more.
- Promotes ISO 14001 certification in schools to reduce environmental impact.
- Develops pedagogical tools like “Les Cahiers du développement durable” to integrate sustainability into education.
Meet the Team Behind EFDD
The heart of EFDD is its diverse and dynamic team. Take Jasmin Jalajel, the coordinator, for example. With degrees in communication, sociology, and environmental management, plus global experience in development cooperation, she’s been steering EFDD since 2016. Then there’s Joëlle Leyen, co-chair and director at Sainte-Véronique College, who’s been pushing sustainable education projects for 20 years. Steve Tumson, another co-chair, brings engineering smarts and a passion for sharing knowledge. The team also includes agricultural engineers, educators, and volunteers—all united by a shared vision of sustainability in education.
Educational Projects and Initiatives
EFDD doesn’t just talk the talk—they walk the walk with a variety of projects. From integrating sustainable development into general and vocational education to facilitating workshops on collective intelligence, their initiatives cover a broad spectrum. For instance, Gwen Delhaye encourages creativity and sustainability across all subjects, while Sarah Robinet leads climate awareness workshops. Valérie Mania and Justine Henning focus on pedagogy and animation, blending educational sciences with health and environmental connections. The team’s diverse expertise fuels a rich array of programs that inspire students and educators alike.
Legacy and Founding Vision
The organization’s roots run deep, thanks to pioneers like Jean-Michel Lex, who dedicated over 30 years to education for sustainable development. His vision laid the groundwork for EFDD’s ongoing mission. Founding members like Philippe Capelle also emphasize the importance of helping youth find meaning in their education and lives through sustainability. This legacy continues to inspire the team and shape the association’s approach, ensuring that education remains a catalyst for positive change.
EFDD’s Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 4: Quality Education – promoting inclusive and equitable education for sustainable development.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – encouraging sustainable practices in schools.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – facilitating climate awareness and eco-citizenship.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – integrating environmental health and biodiversity into education.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – fostering collaboration among educators and institutions.
Looking Ahead: The Future of EFDD
EFDD continues to evolve, embracing digital transformation and expanding its reach. Volunteers like Coralie Juste bring fresh energy with digital communication skills, while administrators and educators keep pushing innovative projects. The association remains committed to supporting schools in their sustainable development journey, nurturing eco-citizens who are ready to face the challenges of tomorrow. It’s a vibrant community, driven by passion and expertise, making sustainability education not just a goal—but a reality.
