University of Niagara Falls Canada begins IDW 2025 celebrations
The University of Niagara Falls Canada (UNF) is marking International Development Week (IDW) on campus with a series of student events highlighting global issues, sustainability, and community.
For the past 35 years, Canada has marked IDW during the first week of February, using it as a time to recognize the country’s efforts towards making the world more peaceful, prosperous, and inclusive. This year’s theme, “Building a Better World Together,” incorporates the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The 17 SDGs, which compose the heart of the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, call for developed and developing countries to work together on global strategies for improving health and education, reducing inequality, encouraging economic growth, and addressing climate change.
In January 2024, UNF was one of more than 360 post-secondary institutions that signed the UN’s SDG Accord, a global agreement whose purpose is to advance the crucial role education plays in promoting the SDGs. By doing so, the university committed to a stronger SDG delivery, which involves inspiring its students, faculty, and staff through relevant events and activities. As a sign of UNF’s dedication to this tremendous cause, its International Student Advising team is marking IDW 2025 with a week-long series of events in and around campus.
“Because of the diverse community here at UNF, students have so many opportunities to broaden their perspectives,” said Monica Wang, Senior International Student Advisor. “By shedding light on key world issues, our hope is that these IDW events provide the tools they need to make a global impact.”
The complete schedule, which runs from Monday, Feb. 3, to Friday, Feb. 7, is as follows:
Movie Night at the Residence
Date and time: Monday, Feb. 3, 6 to 8 p.m.
Location: Student Residence
A screening of Holiday in the Wild, a light-hearted romantic comedy that also highlights the importance of wildlife conservation and protecting endangered species.
Work Eligibility and Career LaunchPad
Date and Time: Tuesday, Feb. 4, 1 to 2 p.m.
Location: Room 230, UNF campus
A licensed immigration consultant will discuss study and work permits and a career advisor will offer helpful career-planning tips.
ISA at Residence: Hot Chocolate and Support
Date and time: Wednesday, Feb. 5, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Student Residence
Students living in residence are invited to indulge in hot chocolate and croissants while speaking with International Student Advisors about immigration guidance and support.
Wellness Wednesday: Canada’s Role in Global Sustainability
Date and time: Wednesday, Feb. 5, Noon to 2 p.m.
Location: Lake Ontario Lounge, UNF campus
In this interactive drop-in session, students can explore Canada’s contributions to sustainability, climate action, gender equality, and education.
Shaping Tomorrow: Sustainability, Career Pathways, and Emerging Trends
Date and time: Thursday, Feb. 6, 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Location: Virtual
Hosted by Kirti Khanzode, Associate Dean of the Honours Bachelor of Business Administration (HBBA) program, along with HBBA faculty members Ehsan Torabizadeh, Mohammed Jalabi, and Dustin Weihs, this virtual session will explore how businesses contribute to the United Nations SDGs and how students can use these insights to chart their future careers.
English Conversation Corner
Date and time: Thursday, Feb. 6, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Location: Third Space Café, 4345 Queen St., Niagara Falls
Students can practice their English in a fun environment while discussing key global issues such as sustainability and education.
Education Around the World: A Sharing Circle
Date and time: Friday, Feb. 7, Noon to 1 p.m.
Location: Lake Ontario Lounge, UNF campus
This storytelling session will allow students to hear about educational experiences from around the world, fostering cultural exchange and dialogue.
