Global Partners in Education Journal – Special Edition January 2025, Vol. 11, No. 1 http://www.gpejournal.org ISSN 2163-758X 1 Introduction to the 8th Global Issues Conference Special Edition Anna Łobodzińska, Guest Editor State University of Applied Sciences, Krosno, Poland The 8th Global Issues Conference, organized jointly by East Carolina University and the State University of Applied Sciences in Krosno on behalf of Global Partners in Education (GPE), took place online from April 8th to April 11th. This annual event brought together students, faculty, and staff from GPE member institutions worldwide to share insights and perspectives on a wide range of global issues. As in previous years, the conference featured multiple thematic sessions, each comprising presentations followed by moderated discussions. These interactive discussions fostered the exchange of diverse perspectives, enriching the exploration of the issues presented. The 2024 conference covered a broad range of topics under several thematic areas, including: • Business, Technology & the Future of Work, • Community Development, • Education, Language and Society, • Environment & Society, • Economics & Society, • Health, Medicine & Wellbeing, • Human Rights & Justice. Following the conference, the Organizing Committee selected outstanding presentations for publication in the Global Partners in Education Journal. This year the following eight articles are presented to a wider audience. 1. “Exploring Gendered Dynamics in Performing Domestic Care Activities” 2. “Positive Masculinity & Disaster Preparedness in Pakistani Urban Communities” Both studies critically examine gender roles within society, addressing how traditional perceptions influence societal structures and functions. The articles challenge conventional gender norms and advocate for redefined roles that promote equity and inclusivity. They underline the transformative potential of addressing gender dynamics in diverse societal domains. 3. “Linguistic Mistakes or a Distinct Variety? How L2 Speakers Influence English in International Contexts” http://www.gpejournal.org/ Global Partners in Education Journal – Special Edition January 2025, Vol. 11, No. 1 http://www.gpejournal.org ISSN 2163-758X 2 4. “The Application of Wordwall.net in English Language Instruction for Young Learners: The Learning Motivation of Taiwanese Elementary School Third Graders” 5. “Authentic Learning and Assessment in Lebanon and UAE Private Schools: Implementation, Impacts, and Challenges” These studies highlight the use of innovative approaches to enhance language learning. All of them emphasize the importance of tailoring educational practices to learners’ specific needs and contribute valuable insights to the fields of language acquisition and instruction. 6. “Bullying Dilemmas: Cyberbullying and Mental Health Strain for University Students in Mount Lebanon” 7. “Investigating Compulsive Staring Behavior in Men: A Gender-sensitive Examination of Sociocultural and Psychological Influences” Both studies investigate behavioural phenomena that have psychological, social, and cultural implications. They consider the sociocultural dimensions of selected features as well as highlight the psychological repercussions of the behaviours in focus. Both studies stress the importance of targeted interventions. 8. “Shadows of the Past: Tracing Intergenerational Trauma in Seychelles” This article highlights the effects of trauma and reveals how much influence it has not only on the people who experienced it but it continues to affect their descendants as well. The study advocates for holistic recovery measures, including mental health care, legal aid, and community programs, to break the cycle of trauma and foster resilience. The 8th Global Issues Conference once again provided an invaluable platform for researchers to present their work to an international audience. The breadth of topics ensured that every attendee could engage with areas of interest and participate in meaningful discussions. We extend our gratitude to all participants, authors, and reviewers who contributed to the success of this event. Their dedication and effort were essential in making the conference and this special edition possible. It would not have been possible without invaluable help of our reviewers from State University of Applied Sciences who also proofread the articles: Agnieszka Habrat Jack Lala Anna Łobodzińska Anna Rewiś-Łętkowska Ewa Rusek http://www.gpejournal.org/ Global Partners in Education Journal – Special Edition January 2025, Vol. 11, No. 1 http://www.gpejournal.org ISSN 2163-758X 3 Dorota Rygiel Bogdan Wolski Joanna Ziobro http://www.gpejournal.org/