A CITY in Scotland has become the first in the country to win a top award recognising its achievements in “lifelong learning”.
Glasgow has been announced as a UNESCO Learning City – the first city in the country to be awarded the acclaim – for its commitment to accessible, inclusive learning which is “not just a phase of life, but a continuous journey embraced by all”.
The award was announced on Monday alongside nine other cities across the world, during UNESCO’s Sixth International Conference on Learning Cities in Jubail, Saudi Arabia.
Glasgow City Council said it aims to provide a wide range of programmes and initiatives for all ages, encouraging its residents to integrate learning into everyday life.
Lord Provost of Glasgow, Jacqueline McLaren (below), said the accolade was proof of the innovative work and practice across the city to enrich the lives of every citizen.
She said: “This is a fantastic achievement for our city and very well deserved.
“Glasgow launched itself as a learning city in 1999 and this concept has been the driving force for the city’s development in lifelong learning.
“Many stakeholders across the city contributed to the bid process and is a testament to the commitment and dedication of all those delivering education and who are enhancing and nurturing the needs of all ages in Glasgow.
“Learning improves all our lives and our communities, and it continues far beyond school, further and higher education – 38% of Glasgow’s population is over 45 years old.”
The award was accepted at a ceremony in Saudi Arabia by Professor Scott MacGregor, vice principal of the University of Strathclyde.
He said: “Lifelong learning is at the heart of education and learning in Glasgow. Schools, colleges, universities and community-based learning is thriving in Glasgow, creating opportunities for individuals and communities. This UNESCO Learning City award is testament to the power of partnership working in Glasgow in this vital endeavour.
“Since our foundation as the place of useful learning, Strathclyde has been committed to widening access to education for the people of Glasgow and beyond.
“We do this not only through initiatives such as our schools outreach programme Young Strathclyder, the Scottish Space School and our Age-Friendly Academy, but through our leading role in Glasgow City Innovation District and the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland where we partner with business and industry to develop cutting-edge research, upskill our workforce, create jobs and grow the economy for all.”
Meanwhile, Isabell Kempf, the of UNESCO Institute of LIfelong Learning, said: “This year’s UNESCO Learning City Awardees demonstrate the transformative potential of lifelong learning in addressing our world’s most pressing challenges.
“I warmly congratulate the UNESCO Learning City of Glasgow on this well-earned award. Glasgow stands as an inspiring example of how investing in lifelong learning empowers individuals and transforms societies.”
Professor Rachel Sandison, deputy vice-chancellor of external engagement at the University of Glasgow, said the university was “delighted” about the achievement.
She said: “Learning must be accessible to all ages and backgrounds, and we strive to achieve this at the University of Glasgow through our widening participation programmes, civic engagement partnerships, and our ongoing research collaborations, shaping policy and practice across the higher education sector.
“It is extremely exciting to see Glasgow recognised as an outstanding global exemplar, and we look forward to making the most of the opportunities this brings, both as the University of Glasgow and a Glasgow Learning City partner, to the communities we serve.”
John Rafferty, deputy principal at Glasgow Clyde College, said: “This is a tremendous accolade for the city which reflects our rich portfolio of education providers, working together to create rewarding pathways for learners of all ages.
“At Glasgow Clyde College we’re proud to welcome many older students, attracted to our diverse portfolio of courses. From evening classes to part-time modules, or if you simply want to take on a new challenge, you’re never too old to go back to education and there will definitely be a course for you.”
