UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities : 13 new African members added

In total, 64 cities from 35 countries have joined this network, reported the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, UNESCO. And there are 13 new African cities.

The Global Network brings together cities that stand out for promoting lifelong learning among their inhabitants, we can read in a UNESCO press release.

The new cities joining the Network were chosen on the recommendation of a jury of experts.

A genuine commitment to learning by the mayor and city administration, as well as a set of good practices and public policy initiatives, are essential prerequisites for becoming a learning city.

13 new African cities have joined this list.

Alexandria, Egypt

Sharkia, Egypt

Zefta, Egypt

Agadir, Kingdom of Morocco

Essaouira, Kingdom of Morocco

Fez, Kingdom of Morocco

Bikok, Cameroon

Maroua 1er, Cameroon

Yaoundé 1er, Cameroon

São Filipe, Cape Verde

Gagnoa, Ivory Coast

Dakar, Senegal

Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe

“Cities are essential to transforming the right to education into a tangible reality for individuals of all ages. With these new admissions, the network now includes 356 cities from around the world, which share their know-how and pave the way for lifelong learning opportunities for 390 million citizens,” underlined the Director General of UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay.

A connection between educational, training and cultural institutions, as well as the engagement of a wide range of partners such as representatives of the public sector, civil society organizations and employers, constitute the key characteristics of learning cities of UNESCO.

They effectively mobilize resources across sectors to promote inclusive and quality learning, from basic to higher education, and revitalize learning within families and communities, facilitate learning in place work, while expanding the use of modern learning technologies, concludes the press release