Lawrence Dankwah
Published: 29 November 2024
'What truly convinced me was how the programme invited students to reimagine the role of education in creating a sustainable and inclusive future. Without a doubt, the decision to study at Glasgow has been the most pivotal in my career over the past six years.'
Education for Sustainable Futures in Adult, Community & Youth Contexts, MSc
Before my Masters journey
Before embarking on my Masters degree, I was a classroom teacher at a public junior high school in Kumasi, Ghana, as part of the Lead for Ghana fellowship programme. My role involved teaching ICT, but my passion for redefining the narrative around education went far beyond the classroom. I co-founded an after-school literacy and digital skills club on a voluntary basis as part of the EduSpots network which broadened access to books, tablets, and educational resources for over 150 children in the community. Seeing the transformative power of education in action inspired me to think bigger, and I realised that pursuing avanced study could help me make an even greater impact.
Why I chose the University of Glasgow
My journey to the University of Glasgow began serendipitously. The city first caught my attention during COP26, which showcased Glasgow’s global contributions to climate change. When I began exploring opportunities for further study, the University of Glasgow stood out for many reasons.
The University’s strong connections with Ghana, my home country, were particularly significant to me. What also impressed me was the University’s commitment to supporting students from diverse backgrounds and the user-friendly admission process. I appreciated how the admission requirements were tailored to my nationality, making the process straightforward and accessible. On top of that, the absence of an application fee coupled with a fully funded Commonwealth Shared Scholarship, made this life-transforming opportunity even more attainable.
And, of course, I have to mention the stunning Gilbert Scott Building, with its awe-inspiring architecture. It wasn’t just a campus - it felt like an educational haven, a place where history and innovation seamlessly converged. The first time I saw it, I knew I wanted to be part of such a magnificent institution.
Why I chose my programme
I chose to pursue the Education for Sustainable Futures in Adults, Youth, and Community Contexts MSc (a bit of a mouthful), because it aligned with my belief that education should tackle some of the most pressing global challenges, from ecological justice to the role of Indigenous knowledge systems, the importance of play, and the design of future-oriented learning spaces.
What truly convinced me was how the programme invited students to reimagine the role of education in creating a sustainable and inclusive future.
The most important thing I’ve learned
The most transformative aspect of my time at the University of Glasgow has been how it shaped me into an unconventional educator. I’ve embraced the idea of doing things differently- of crafting educational encounters that spark wonder and curiosity and of helping learners make sense of the world in ways that are deeply personal and meaningful.
Perhaps the most profound lesson has been a redefinition of language, literacy, and being. My programme challenged me to think critically about what these concepts mean in an unpredictable future. Without a doubt, the decision to study at Glasgow has been the most pivotal in my career over the past six years.
Contributing to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals
One of the key lessons from my coursework is the realisation that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to the complex challenges facing our world today. From climate change to poverty and educational inequity, the global stage requires us to embrace diverse competencies and knowledge systems. These ensure that solutions are not only tailored to specific contexts but also empower individuals to take ownership of their identities and their pathways to change.
My studies instilled in me the importance of relational thinking - the ability to connect people, cultures, and the material world in ways that foster “pluriversal” inclusion. It was a powerful reminder that imposing singular worldviews often limits the collaborative potential needed to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Experiential learning
The Education for Sustainable Futures MSc programme placed a strong emphasis on fieldwork, which opened up a host of experiential learning opportunities. One of the most enriching was my time as a volunteer supporting families at the Glasgow Science Centre. This experience introduced me to arts-based approaches to raising environmental awareness and merging creativity with education to inspire action.
What I am doing now
After completing my studies, I returned to Ghana and secured a role with EduSpots as the Education & Research Manager. In this role, I lead a team to design innovative curricula and content for our in-school and after-school EcoSTEM, Literacy, and Gender Equity clubs.
The skills and perspective I gained from the MSc programme have equipped me with a nuanced understanding of how education thrives in community contexts; I was within a year promoted to Head of Programmes, a position that grants me greater independence to lead, innovate, and inspire the team I manage with my wild ideas from my coursework.
One of the most unique and impactful aspects of my studies was the reflective journaling assessments. These allowed me to link educational theories and classroom interactions to my personal and professional experiences. Even now, these reflections remain a guiding light.
My favourite part about studying at UofG
I often say to Glasgow: “It’s a see-you-soon whispered on the wind.” My favourite part of studying at the University of Glasgow was undoubtedly the people. The faculty was incredibly supportive, and the friends I made on my course continue to inspire me with their career achievements and meaningful contributions in their respective countries.
I also fell in love with the city itself. From the vibrant green spaces to the friendly atmosphere, Glasgow felt like home. One of my fondest memories is walking down Kelvin Way late at night, feeling perfectly safe, and reflecting on the bubbling ideas for my dissertation. Those peaceful walks were moments I will always cherish.
My advice for future sudents
No matter your background, passions, or interests, the University of Glasgow has everything you need to experience a transformative education and prepare you to be a world changer. Take full advantage of the countless opportunities for career growth and personal development.
And remember, your journey doesn’t end with graduation. The University’s alumni network is a lifelong community, stronger and more impactful than you could ever imagine. Be bold, be curious, and trust that your time at Glasgow will set the foundation for incredible opportunities ahead.
First published: 29 November 2024