Creating a ‘human and educational’ city in Sorocaba

Unlocking the Potential of Urban Communities: Case Studies of Twelve Learning Cities showcases cities in different parts of the world that are embracing lifelong learning for all. The book explores how the learning city approach can be used to unlock citizens’ potential, focusing on the experiences of twelve cities from all five UNESCO regions: Melton (Australia), Sorocaba (Brazil), Beijing (China), Bahir Dar (Ethiopia), Espoo (Finland), Cork (Ireland), Amman (Jordan), Mexico City (Mexico), Ybycuí (Paraguay), Balanga (Philippines), Namyangju (Republic of Korea) and Swansea (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland). These cities will be celebrated at the book’s launch at the 2nd International Conference on Learning Cities (ICLC), which will take place in Mexico City from 28 to 30 September 2015. Join us there and help shape the future of learning cities!

Creating a ‘human and educational’ city in Sorocaba

"Sorocaba, part of the triangle of cities that are responsible for one third of São Paulo’s total GDP, strives to be a space for transformation and social well-being, in which its citizens can learn throughout their lives to truly value cultural diversity, the environment and education." - Antonio Carlos Pannunzio, Mayor of Sorocaba

This case study reports upon the strategies and programmes adopted by Sorocaba’s Municipal Government between 2013 and 2016. These strategies are aimed at creating a ‘human and educational’ city in Sorocaba that fosters a sense of community and provides a better quality of life for citizens. A human and educational city encourages residents to respect and appreciate cultural diversity. It turns public spaces into educational spaces that promote exchange and the continuous development of citizens of all ages.

Read about the other cases here.