Edmonton has become the first Canadian city to join UNESCO's network of top learning cities in the world. Edmonton joins network member cities including Hamburg, Shanghai and Beijing as part of UNESCO's Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC), an international network of cities committed to fostering a culture of excellence and learning for all to enhance social inclusion, economic development, and cultural prosperity.
Earlier this year, Edmonton Catholic Schools joined with the City of Edmonton and other educational partners in a bid to be designated as a UNESCO Learning.
"Edmonton Catholic Schools has been a vital part of the fabric of Edmonton for 134 years. We are delighted to join the City of Edmonton and our fellow educational organizations in continuing the excellent tradition of providing exceptional learning experiences for Edmontonians of all ages," shares Board Chair Sandra Palazzo.
As the northernmost big city in North America, Edmonton plays a key leadership role in provincial, national, and international contexts as an inclusive centre of learning, innovation, creativity, and technology. Becoming a member of this UNESCO network is a key example of this leadership and represents the culmination of years of dedication across the community to lifelong learning for everyone.
The community coalition, led by Mayor Sohi on behalf of the City of Edmonton, includes:
- Edmonton Catholic Schools
- The King's University
- Edmonton Public Library
- MacEwan University
- Edmonton Public Schools
- NAIT
- Conseil scolaire Centre-Nord
- NorQuest College
- University of Alberta
- Yellowhead Tribal College
- Concordia University of Edmonton
- Athabasca University
For more information on the Unesco Global Network of Learning Cities, visit edmonton.ca/learningcity.
What is the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC)?
The UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities is an international network consisting of cities that successfully promote lifelong learning across their communities. It includes 294 cities from all around the world that share inspiration, know-how, and best practice with each other.
