We were delighted to recently welcome Paula Ferro from the Yao Crochet Project to two Cork primary schools — 3rd class at Carrigaline Educate Together N.S. and 6th class at Gaelscoil Mhichíl Uí Choileáin, Clonakilty.

During her visits, Paula spoke to pupils about her work with the Yao Community in Mozambique, offering a real-world insight into global justice, sustainable livelihoods and community-led development. The Yao Crochet Project is featured within the Our World Award resources for 3rd–6th class and provides an engaging case study that supports teaching and learning across SPHE, Geography and Social, Environmental and Scientific Education (SESE).

With the support of Irish Aid, the Yao community in the Niassa Reserve has developed practical skills that enable them to earn an income while strengthening their local economy and preserving cultural traditions. Pupils learned how access to skills, education and fair opportunities can have a positive and lasting impact on communities around the world.

The visits gave pupils an opportunity to ask questions, make connections between their own lives and those of children in Mozambique, and deepen their understanding of global citizenship. For teachers, the sessions demonstrated how the Our World Award resources can be used to bring development education to life in a meaningful, age-appropriate way in the classroom.