Sur becomes member of UNESCO global network of learning cities

MUSCAT, DEC 16

As the result of the achievement of intensified efforts to develop the education system, Abdullah bin Ali al Fouri, Director-General of the Directorate-General of Education in Al Sharqiyah South Governorate, received the certificate of Sur City's membership in the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities.

The receipt certificate of membership took place during a ceremony organised by the Omani National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, under the auspices of Dr Madeeha bint Ahmed al Shaibaniyah, Minister of Education.

The Governor of Al Sharqiyah South announced that this achievement is the result of intensified efforts to develop the education system and enhance the role of continuous and lifelong learning as a fundamental pillar of comprehensive and sustainable development. It was in addition, to working towards achieving the goals of learning cities according to approved international standards.

Earlier this month, UNESCO announced the membership of 72 cities from 46 countries in the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities, in recognition of their exceptional commitment to realising the right to lifelong learning for all at the local level. The city of Sur joined the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities on February 14th of last year, becoming one of three Omani cities to be included in the network. This aligns with the Sultanate of Oman's efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, promote social justice, and build a sustainable knowledge society.

Partners in the education, community, and private sectors in Sur have played an active role in adopting best regional and global practices, promoting a culture of lifelong learning, and providing a competitive environment that supports the launch and implementation of high-quality initiatives and projects that contribute to improving the quality of education and life in general.

UNESCO classifies listed learning cities as vibrant communities where learning is an integral part of daily life, taking place in schools, workplaces, libraries, homes and public spaces. These cities offer opportunities for all, developing and updating skills to keep pace with changes in the labour market, organising literacy programmes for those who missed out on education in their early years, enabling citizens of all ages to understand and shape the era of artificial intelligence, and fostering innovative and entrepreneurial mindsets.