A recent four-day training in Tehran brought together 22 facilitators working with children and adolescents across Iran.
Hosted by the Amal Institute, the training helped participants understand Aflatoun’s social and financial education approach and prepare to use it in their communities.
The facilitators represented different cities, villages and organisations. This diversity created space to share experiences and explore how Aflatoun’s materials can respond to different local needs.
Learning through participation
Participants explored five key Aflatoun themes, alongside relevant lesson plans, activities and facilitation methods.
However, the training went beyond introducing the materials. Facilitators experienced the activities themselves, practised leading sessions and reflected on what effective learning looks like.
Exercises encouraged them to identify what they already knew, what they wanted to understand and what they had learned. Group discussions also helped them consider how activities could be adapted for different ages and settings.
This practical approach allowed participants to learn from one another while strengthening their confidence as facilitators.
Adapting learning locally
Social and financial education is most effective when it connects with children’s everyday lives.
During the training, participants worked in groups to explore how Aflatoun content could be adapted to their communities. They drew on their own experience of working with children and adolescents across Iran.
The sessions also created opportunities to discuss different teaching approaches, test ideas and receive feedback from other facilitators.
Building continued connections
Participants began forming Aflatoun clubs to help them remain connected after the training. These spaces will support continued learning, exchange and collaboration.
The clubs can also help facilitators bring Aflatoun’s approach into their ongoing work with children and young people.
The four days provided more than an introduction to new materials. They helped build a community of facilitators ready to create practical and meaningful learning experiences across Iran.