Following the first successful and inspiring edition in September 2019, the Sustainable Development Games (SDGames) are making a comeback in Nijmegen from 14–18 April 2025. Together with a passionate team of students from Montessori College Nijmegen & Groesbeek, organizers Aiden Bloodworth, Jeroen Gremmen, and Roelant Wijngaards are once again putting together this special event designed by and for students.
From shaping the program, organizing activities, and finding host families to matching international peers and seeking sponsors—students are involved in every aspect. This gives them the chance to develop crucial organizational and social skills, while gaining a unique and unforgettable experience.
“You get to help organize something truly special. I’m learning how to work with people and how to organize an event. It takes a lot of time and effort, but it’s really amazing—to be able to create something meaningful for others!”
Isa Zaad, student committee member
This edition of the SDGames focuses on UN Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action. Throughout the week, special attention will be paid to sustainability, environmental awareness, and actions to combat climate change. The blend of sport, dance, and education encourages young people to actively contribute to a more sustainable future. Building cross-cultural understanding and making international friendships are at the heart of the event.
The week kicks off on Monday with an opening by Nijmegen’s Alderman for Sustainability, Mr. Van Elferen. Then come icebreaker activities and a cultural market featuring food tastings from around the world. Tuesday is “Nijmegen Day,” starting at the historic Stevenskerk and offering workshops like an eco-bike tour, city clean-up, river delta research, and a flower bulb planting action.
On Thursday, the group will visit the Zaanse Schans and go plastic fishing in Amsterdam’s canals with Plastic Whale.
Friday takes place in the forests of Groesbeek and ends with a celebration and DJ party at Montessori College Nijmegen.
From Nijmegen to the World
The first Global Montessori Games were held in Nijmegen in 2019, bringing Montessori secondary schools together from around the world. Since then, more countries have joined, with schools eager to host. Events are now held annually in places like Norway, Italy, Bolivia, Mexico, and Bulgaria—and now it’s full circle, back to where it all began six years ago.
Host Families: Experience Dutch Culture First-Hand
Hospitality is a key part of every event. International participants stay with local host families, giving them a true taste of life in the Netherlands. It’s a chance to exchange cultures, values, and experiences in a meaningful way.
Each event has a unique character shaped by the host country’s culture and traditions. This edition gives participants the chance to discover not only Dutch culture but also the historic and lively city of Nijmegen—with hospitality, connection, and sustainability at the center. These values help students become changemakers, now and in the future, as they work toward a better and more peaceful world.
🔗 Want to know more about the program?
PEACE
Global Association of Montessori Education and Sport