Welcome to the
Democratic Education Network

What is DEN?

The Democratic Education Network (DEN), driven by students at the University of Westminster, is dedicated to empowering students through extensive involvement and collaboration, in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In line with the University’s 2023–2029 plan, DEN incorporates student perspectives into its practices and international collaborations to nurture and motivate students, helping them reach their full potential.

Our Impact

Since its establishment in 2016, DEN has created opportunities for over 1000+ students, established more than 10 global partnerships, and published 8 + SDG-linked student-led books, conference proceedings, and reports. Our impact extends across Vietnam, Thailand, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Peru, and beyond.

Awards & Recognition

– In 2019, DEN was runner-up for the Student Experience Award at the Guardian University Awards.
– In 2025, DEN was recognised as a finalist for Student Engagement at the Green Gown Awards. Dr. Farhang Morady is a finalist as a Sustainability Champion (Staff) for his leadership in embedding sustainability and student empowerment at the University of Westminster.

Student Voices

Student Voices are at the heart of DEN. Through blogs, podcasts, writing long articles, creative projects, and personal reflections. Students are encouraged to share their learning and development journeys. Their stories demonstrate how local actions are connected to global change and how DEN encourages students to think critically, challenge inequalities, build partnerships, and explore their creativity. Highlights include:

Reflections on field trips.
Creative expressions such as poetry, photography, and student-designed posters.
Podcasts.
Alumni reflections on their experiences with DEN and careers

Our SDG Focus

The Sustainable Development Goals are embedded into DEN’s work, with a strong emphasis on:

SDG 4: Quality Education
SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
SDG 16: Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

Upcoming Events

DEN’s flagship event is the International Student Conference, along with an online magazine and an annual publication. This conference is held each year at the University of Westminster. The upcoming conference in May 2026 will present student-led panels, global debates, and the unveiling of our latest book, “Transforming Education: Innovation for Sustainability in the AI Era.” Other highlights will include workshops in Turkey and Thailand, as well as continued collaborations with institutions in Hanoi, the Westminster International University of Tashkent, Kocaeli University in Turkey, and Kasetsart University in Thailand.

Meet Director

I am a Reader (Associate Professor) in International Development at the University of Westminster, with almost 30 years of teaching and research in International Political Economy and Development.

As a National Teaching Fellow and multiple-time Outstanding Teacher (2013, 2014, 2016, 2019), I was also honoured with the Westminster Learning and Teaching Award (2022).

In recognition of my work on student engagement and sustainability, I am a 2025 Green Gown Awards finalist (Individual Champion & Student Engagement/UN SDGs).

These recognitions reflect my commitment to making education collaborative, innovative, and transformative.

In 2016, I founded the Democratic Education Network to create a more compassionate, inclusive, and student-led learning environment. My approach champions project-based and student-led research, alongside publishing opportunities for students through magazines, blogs, and books.

Beyond the confines of the classroom, I have facilitated and directed international field trips, workshops, and conferences designed to establish connections between students, local communities, and global partners. These initiatives serve to empower students, encouraging them to recognise their roles as global citizens actively contributing to the creation of a sustainable, democratic, and equitable world. Furthermore, I am engaged in scholarly research and publication; I am currently leading an edited volume titled “Reimagining Education in the Age of AI and Global Sustainability,” which brings together contributors from institutions around the world. The publication is expected in 2026.

Read more about my research and publications here

Watch Farhang explain how DEN empowers student voices worldwide

Our Aims & Vision

DEN is founded on a model of authentic collaboration between students and staff, characterised by mutual support, respect and shared responsibility. Our goal is to ignite students’ enthusiasm, creativity, and confidence, allowing them to engage meaningfully with their communities. We aim to ensure that students feel supported and motivated to realise their full potential.

DEN offers a platform that celebrates the diversity of the University of Westminster’s student body, promoting democratic engagement through a collective approach to education. By working together, students learn not only to recognise and communicate their own achievements but also to contribute to wider social and global change.

In doing so, DEN builds directly on the University of Westminster’s 2023–29 strategy, linking classroom learning with real-world impact and fostering the skills, values, and experiences students need to become global citizens and leaders for a sustainable future.

Leadership & Support:

DEN is proudly supported by the University of Westminster. Our mission—to empower students through global citizenship, sustainability, and intercultural collaboration—is endorsed by university leaders who recognise DEN’s transformative role in education.

Professor Peter Bonfield

Vice-Chancellor & President, University of Westminster

“You [DEN] are an inspiration to us all—part of a compassionate, progressive and responsible movement of young people helping to overcome injustices and make the world a better place.”

Dr Andy Pitchford

Head of the Centre for Education and Teaching Innovation, University of Westminster

“[Students’] contributions enrich debates on collaboration, co-operation, and sustainability… DEN is moving from strength to strength.”

Professor Dibyesh Anand, Deputy Vice-Chancellor

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Global Engagement and Employability), University of Westminster

“A good education is about opening doors, exploring ideas, being bold, challenging the status quo, and giving hope for a more just world. DEN Westminster is integral to our institution’s mission in providing inclusive education and improving outcomes for our students from diverse backgrounds, and thus being a place where students can bring their whole selves and feel they belong. Every year, it is an absolute joy to witness students from different disciplines making DEN their home and thus making our university a better place for all.”

Alan Porter

Head of School – Social Sciences, University of Westminster.

“I’ve seen the impact of the Democratic Education Network in the School of Social Sciences first hand, through my own participation in field trips and the subsequent conversations I have had with DEN students when they go on to lead or join other university projects, clearly inspired and empowered by their experience with DEN. Then DEN is an environment where confidence grows and ideas take shape, building a genuine community of partners that bridges Schools, Colleges, Universities and countries. For students who care about sustainability, global citizenship and working together, the DEN is the place to be.”

Dr. Ngamlamai Piolueang

Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences Kasetsart University, Thailand

“Education, in its truest form, transcends textbooks and lectures—DEN embodies this philosophy by encouraging students to challenge boundaries and embrace collaborative innovation.”

Dr Nguyen Thi Minh Tien

Dean, Faculty of International Studies, Hanoi University, Vietnam

“The partnership between Westminster and Hanoi University, led by DEN, has cultivated a learning environment that transcends borders and empowers students with a truly global perspective.”

Prof. Dr. İsmail Şiriner

Batman University, Turkey

“This inspiring collection brings the Sustainable Development Goals to life, fostering change in global development, climate action, education, and the arts…A powerful tribute to leadership, creativity, and innovation in education.”

Dr. Pailin Kittisereechai

Kasetsart University, Thailand

“At the heart of democracy lies the celebration of diversity and the freedom to express one’s opinion… DEN captures this spirit, inspiring vibrant exchanges of ideas among young minds.”

Dr Nick Smith

Assistant Head of School – Social Sciences, University of Westminster.

“DEN is a fantastic initiative that provides students with the opportunity to flourish whilst making a real impact in their education. Through the Democratic Engagement in an International Context module, students are provided with interactive workshops and international field trip opportunities to develop leadership and research skills through cross-cultural collaborations. All spearheaded by Farhang, who delivers a wonderful module. I can’t recommend it highly enough.”

Dr Elisabetta Brighi

Assistant Head of School – Social Sciences, University of Westminster.

“DEN is a remarkable asset, offering a student experience that is truly unique to the University of Westminster. It is rare to see students so alive in a university setting – whether they’re organising a conference, preparing for a field trip, or exchanging ideas in their weekly meetings. What sets DEN apart is the nurturing, inclusive, and vibrant environment it fosters. Students don’t just participate, they bring their whole selves into this, and DEN becomes a multiplier of confidence, capability, and connection. It is a model of engaged learning that speaks directly to our institutional commitment to inclusion, sustainability, and real-world impact”.

Morgan Lirette

Sustainable Development Advisor, University of Westminster

“DEN represents the best of the university experience – finding community, learning about the world around you, and developing career-ready skills. That all of this is happening around sustainable development is a dream. DEN is a jewel, and the world is the better for the students who pass through it.”