UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities: Key contributor to the 13th Pascal International Conference

The 13th Pascal International Conference was held from 3-5 June 2016 in Glasgow, Scotland (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland). The Conference was organized by the Pascal International Observatory, a key partner of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC). Its main theme was the development of learning cities and the cross-cutting role they play in initiatives such as Smart Cities, Healthy Cities and Resilient Cities, which promote holistic approaches to urban development.

The UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities’ (GNLC) team presented on three main topics at the Conference. The first presentation, “The relevance of cities in the 21st century and the role of the UNESCO GNLC”, was held by Raul Valdes-Cotera, Senior Programme Specialist. Mr Valdes-Cotera explained how the Network developed, what guidance it aims to provide, and what the main challenges of monitoring of lifelong learning and education are. The second, “The case of Okayama in Japan, a city which has put Education for Sustainable Development at heart”, was given by Rika Yorozu, Programme Specialist. It focussed mainly on how intergenerational learning development in communities can support sustainable development, while also providing insights on the different dynamics of community learning in Japan as compared to Western models of community education. The third presentation, “Working strategies for developing a learning city”, was held by Mo Wang, Programme Specialist, together with Max Weidlich. It provided participating cities with practical examples on how the six areas of action outlined in UNESCO’s Guidelines for Building Learning Cities can be implemented. 

A number of members of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities were also present to share their experiences and inspire international dialogue on developing learning cities. These members, who included UNESCO Learning City Awardees 2015 Beijing (China), Cork (Ireland), Espoo (Finland) and Swansea (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland), provided insights into their best practices and future plans. Bristol, which has just joined the Network as the first city in England, gave an impressive presentation on its Learning City Year 2016 and associated love learning campaign.

The final statement of the Pascal International Conference included recommendations on developing learning cities by establishing complementary agendas, sharing knowledge and experience, and making use of innovative technologies.

Download: Conference Statement (PDF 127.2 KB, English)