Press release
10 cities receive UNESCO Award for their outstanding achievements in lifelong learning
Representing both large metropolises and smaller urban areas, the recognized cities have demonstrated how implementing concrete action on the ground can empower citizens of all ages by providing learning opportunities. The prize-winning cities were selected by the (UIL), based on recommendations from an independent jury of international experts.
“Cities are home to more than half of the world’s population and must be at the forefront of societal change. The 2024 UNESCO Learning City Awardees demonstrate the power of lifelong learning to enable citizens to adapt, innovate and collaborate on solutions to our planet's most pressing challenges. Their commitment to inclusivity and to sustainable development offers a path to a more just and prosperous future for all,†said Isabell Kempf, Director of UNESCO’s UIL.
The ten UNESCO Learning City Awardees are:
- Benguerir, Morocco
- Bouaké, Côte d’Ivoire
- Cork, Ireland
- Cuenca, Ecuador
- Doha, Qatar
- Eunpyeong-gu, Republic of Korea
- Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Querétaro, Mexico
- Wuhan, China
- Yanbu Industrial City, Saudi Arabia
About the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities
The comprises 356 cities from 79 countries which are home to 390 million people. A defining feature of UNESCO learning cities is their ability to connect education, training and cultural institutions while engaging diverse partners, including public-sector representatives, civil society organizations and employers. These cities effectively mobilize resources across sectors to promote inclusive, quality learning at all levels, from basic to higher education. They enhance learning within families and communities, support workplace education, and expand the use of modern learning technologies.
Every three years, the members of the network gather at the International Conference on Learning Cities to take stock of progress, address challenges and collaboratively shape solutions for the future.
Further information
About UNESCO
With 194 Member States, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization contributes to peace and security by leading multilateral cooperation on education, science, culture, communication and information. Headquartered in Paris, 91Â鶹¹ú²ú¾«Æ·×ÔÅÄ offices in 54 countries and employs over 2300 people. UNESCO oversees more than 2000 World Heritage sites, Biosphere Reserves and Global Geoparks; networks of Creative, Learning, Inclusive and Sustainable Cities; and over 13 000 associated schools, university chairs, training and research institutions. Its Director-General is Audrey Azoulay.
“Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed†– UNESCO Constitution, 1945.
More information:
Press contact
UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning, Katja Römer
Katja Römer
+49 (0) 40 44 80 41 54
About the Awardees
Benguerir, Morocco
Located in Morocco's Marrakesh-Safi region and home to 102,000 residents, Benguerir has made significant strides since becoming a UNESCO learning city in 2020. Supported by a 164% increase in the lifelong learning budget for 2024, the city emphasizes strong multistakeholder coordination and a results-oriented strategy. Key initiatives include the ‘2nd Chance School’ for reintegrating school dropouts, a literacy programme for women, community learning spaces such as digital libraries, and tailored support for marginalized groups, including children with autism and non-verbal children. Benguerir stands as a model of inclusive and innovative lifelong learning.
Bouaké, Côte d’Ivoire
With a population of over 600,000, Bouaké has distinguished itself through innovative strategies, impactful partnerships, and a strong focus on empowering women, youth and marginalized communities. Since becoming a UNESCO learning city in 2022, the city has implemented initiatives such as the EU-supported ‘Bouaké Ville Durable’ project, which trained young people in green economy fields like agroecology and the circular economy; and the Women’s Empowerment Fund, which issued micro-loans to over 450 women. Collaborations with institutions such as Université Alassane Ouattara and the City of Ifrane have further enhanced literacy and environmental education.
Cork, Ireland
As Ireland’s second-largest city and a UNECO learning city since 2013, Cork boasts a vibrant and inclusive educational infrastructure spanning basic to higher education, supported by highly engaged learning communities. Key achievements include the annual Lifelong Learning Festival, featuring over 400 free events, and the expansion of its Learning Neighbourhoods programme to seven communities, co-created with residents to foster inclusive educational opportunities. Cork’s commitment to accessibility is reflected in initiatives like the Traveller and Roma Inter-Agency Group, which provides tailored educational support for marginalized groups, and its prison education initiatives, which offer learning opportunities for incarcerated individuals and their families. Through the ‘Our Shared Island’ initiative, co-led with other Irish Learning Cities, Cork promotes sustainable peace by celebrating diverse cultural traditions through inclusive exchanges and programmes.
- , Cork
Cuenca, Ecuador
Since becoming a UNESCO learning city in 2017, Cuenca has pursued an ambitious vision of inclusive and sustainable lifelong learning for all. Through participatory processes, the city has reformed its public policies to enhance access to information and empower local communities. Collaborations within Ecuador and internationally have enabled Cuenca to address critical issues such as digital literacy, environmental protection and gender equity. Its commitment to improving social and economic well-being is evident in initiatives aimed at eradicating illiteracy, reducing environmental impact and fostering a sustainable future.
Doha, Qatar
As Qatar’s capital and home to over 40% of the nation’s population, Doha has strengthened lifelong learning opportunities through partnerships with public and private sectors and civil society since becoming a UNESCO learning city in 2022. With a 15% increase in its budget for learning city development, Doha has introduced tailored programmes promoting sustainability, hygiene and healthy practices for diverse groups, including students, blue-collar workers, seniors, and food establishments. A key initiative is the creation of community learning platforms in collaboration with local educational institutions and organizations, which has driven a 25% rise in adult education enrolment over two years. These efforts have particularly benefited marginalized communities, enhancing inclusivity in lifelong learning.
Eunpyeong-gu, Republic of Korea
Eunpyeong-gu has made significant progress in lifelong learning through citizen engagement and innovative policies. Guided by its vision, ‘Learning City Eunpyeong with a Million Learnings to Enjoy’, the city has made civic education and participation a top local priority as well as urban regeneration and the social economy. Since becoming a UNESCO Learning City in 2016, the city has expanded its learning spaces, reaching 177 locations in 2024, including a Lifelong Learning Center. Partnerships with universities and other stakeholders provide tailored programmes, while digital platforms benefit over 21,000 users. Eunpyeong-gu fosters a vibrant, citizen-led learning society, supporting growth at all stages of life.
Glasgow, United Kingdom
Glasgow, a UNESCO learning city since 2019, is committed to accessible, inclusive education that supports personal and professional growth for learners of all ages. Collaborations between the local council, educational institutions, non-profits and businesses underpin its lifelong learning framework, which is guided by four policy dimensions: green and healthy, equitable and inclusive, economically prosperous, and culturally vibrant. Programmes like the ‘Learn 50+’ initiative address the needs of residents aged 45 and older, who make up more than 38% of the population, offering courses to enhance skills and social connections. Meanwhile, the Glasgow City and Riverside Innovation Districts advance skills development and learning while supporting the city’s transition to a fully renewable, climate-neutral future.
Querétaro, Mexico
Querétaro's approach to lifelong learning is rooted in social justice and inclusivity, driven by collaboration among diverse stakeholders. The city’s learning city initiative, led by the Development Council Querétaro City of Learning established in 2021, focuses on co-creating and supporting lifelong learning programmes. Targeting the most vulnerable neighbourhoods, the learning city plan includes 40 projects, 28 of which are public programmes tailored to lifelong learning principles. From reopening cultural centres to implementing innovative environmental initiatives, Querétaro had reached over 1.7 million participants by 2023, demonstrating its commitment to empowering communities through education. Querétaro became a UNESCO learning city in 2019.
Wuhan, China
Wuhan, a UNESCO learning city since 2016, integrates continuing education and lifelong learning into its urban development strategy, fostering interdepartmental collaboration to strengthen learning communities and public education services. The city combines physical and digital infrastructure to offer diverse learning opportunities. It has established one municipal and 13 district-level community education colleges, 151 street and township schools, and 1,874 neighbourhood and village teaching points, providing courses from vocational skills to cultural arts. The ‘Wuhan Lifelong Learning Network’ enhances accessibility with over 8,800 digital resources and 6,500 online courses, ensuring inclusive learning opportunities for all residents.
Yanbu Industrial City, Saudi Arabia
Yanbu Industrial City, a UNESCO learning city since 2022, combines leadership in advanced industries with a commitment to lifelong learning by investing in both formal and informal education. The city provides safe and innovative environments that foster knowledge and skills development. Its strategy focuses on five key pillars: increasing participation in learning for sustainable development, promoting lifelong learning for all, supporting environmental protection and public health, creating safe and stimulating educational environments, and empowering women while reducing unemployment. Additionally, it supports entrepreneurs through the Industrial Development Center, offering specialised programs and incubators for small and medium-sized enterprises.
