Education is one of the most powerful tools to transform lives and uplift communities.
Unfortunately, not everyone has access to quality education, especially in conflict zones, where students face numerous challenges.
However, one person who is making a difference in this regard is David Falconer, the Founder and Executive Director of Classrooms Without Walls (CWW).
Falconer's volunteer work began in March 2022, soon after Russia invaded Ukraine. Witnessing the impact the military conflict had on students' education, he immediately volunteered to support Smart Osvita NGO, a Ukrainian non-profit organization, to coordinate an international volunteer program to deliver online lessons in English.
The support Falconer received from volunteers like retired Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield, the Smithsonian Institution, the Royal Tyrrell Museum, the Edmonton Public Library, Winspear Centre, and teachers and non-teachers from around the world inspired him to start CWW, an organization that currently offers free online schooling to students who live in conflict zones.
By partnering with organizations such as Smart Osvita NGO, Canadian Women for Women in Afghanistan, Ocean Wise, Edmonton Public Library, OverDrive, Monash Virtual School, and hundreds of volunteer teachers, CWW is providing a lifeline to students who have been forced to abandon their education due to conflict. By offering free online schooling, CWW is breaking down barriers and providing access to education to those who need it the most. Most important, CWW is letting students in these countries know the world has not forgotten them and that they can continue to dream, and set goals.
Currently, CWW offers three programs for volunteers to join, Teachers for Afghanistan, Teachers for Ukraine, and Teachers for Myanmar.
The CWW program is actively seeking volunteers who are willing to offer their free time to teach various elementary and secondary school subjects, including ESL (English as a Second Language).
Volunteers are also invited to share their hobbies, gifts and talents with students, such as teaching them how to draw, learn magic tricks, and more. By making education fun and engaging, CWW is creating an environment where students can thrive and learn in a safe environment. There are also other opportunities to support CWW, such as updating their social media platforms, becoming an online host, and general organization support.
All volunteers are provided with an online introduction and training. If interested, please contact, [email protected]
© 2023 Martin Parnell
