Canada’s public education system is not keeping pace with rapid economic, social, and technological transformation. We need the inventive, fresh, and bold voices of young people to disrupt outdated systems and rethink the role of education in our society.
Young people are the key to reimagining education
Young people are wired for innovation
According to research out of the , are natural challengers of the status quo, being more risk-tolerant than adult brains.
For too long, young people have been excluded from the conversation! At the current pace of change in our society, it is not enough to continue tinkering around the edges doing what has always been done. We need young minds to break through the barriers that prevent real change.
Why young people need a voice at the table
Public education lays the foundation for realizing all our social,Ìýeconomic, and cultural goals. It’s the place where we should beÌýpreparing all young people – and not just some – to thrive in aÌýcomplex global world. It can be one of our most important catalystsÌýfor societal change, but it is not currently living up to its potential.ÌýPublic education in Canada is good, but it’s not great.
We need more than tokenism! Instead, we need true intersectoral and intergenerational conversations with young people at the forefront of innovation.
Meet the network
How the youth network is making a difference
The Pan-Canadian Youth Network brings together young people from across Canada who have a diverse range of life experiences, education, and interests. The Network provides a platform to amplify youth voices and innovative perspectives by integrating their feedback into PFE’s work. Our goal is ensuring that young people have a real say in catalyzing change in public education. ÌýÌý
The Network uses a range of methods to stay connected and exchange idea. They get together regularly to discuss hot topics and issues that impact young people and public education in Canada. Take a look at recent contributions from the Pan-Canadian Youth Network.Ìý
When we uplift youth and students during their public education, we will see the lasting impact… that they believe youth should be uplifted, they believe that youth should have a seat at the table and that their voice is just as valid and as important as an adult’s voice.
Paige Wallace, Youth Network 2023
Still have questions?
Like you, we recognize that we are always learning how we can more intentionally integrate young people into our work. If you’re not ready to apply, there are many other ways to get involved. We welcome you to share any stories, ideas, and/or ways you want to collaborate with us. Please reach out with any other questions or suggestions!
Please contact [email protected]. We would love to hear from you!
Thank you to our sponsor!