Jubail, October 22, 2024 – Minister of Education Yousef Al-Benyan presided over the 10th-anniversary celebration of the UNESCO Regional Center of Quality and Excellence in Education, held at the Marine Club in Jubail Industrial City. The event also marked the launch of the center's new identity and recognized the cities that achieved membership in the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities. Esteemed dignitaries, educational specialists, and experts from both within the Kingdom and abroad attended the ceremony, underscoring the significance of the occasion.
In his keynote address, Al-Benyan reflected on the establishment of the regional center a decade ago, which has operated under the auspices of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). He emphasized the steadfast support from the Kingdom’s leadership that has been instrumental in developing this unique hub of expertise aimed at enhancing the quality of education. "The center was founded to serve as a pioneering global model in educational excellence," he stated, highlighting its crucial role in elevating educational standards.
The minister underscored the pressing need to invest in quality education to meet the challenges posed by a rapidly evolving global landscape. He articulated the importance of adapting educational systems to foster innovative generations capable of thriving in the context of Saudi Vision 2030. This vision emphasizes the necessity for enhanced regional and international cooperation, as well as the exchange of knowledge and expertise to achieve these educational goals.
Al-Benyan took the opportunity to honor the partner cities that have contributed to the learning cities initiative, including Jubail, Yanbu, Madinah, Al-Ahsa, and King Abdullah Economic City. These cities were recognized for their commitment to creating conducive learning environments and advancing lifelong education, aligning with the objectives of the UNESCO network.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, the Arab Network for Learning Cities platform was launched, aimed at monitoring qualitative community initiatives and sharing best practices in lifelong education. Additionally, a strategic cooperation agreement was announced between the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning (UIL) and the center, detailing a joint work plan for the years 2024 to 2028. This partnership is expected to enhance collaborative efforts in educational development, emphasizing lifelong learning as a vital component of sustainable growth.
As the celebration came to a close, it was clear that the UNESCO Regional Center of Quality and Excellence in Education is poised to continue its impactful work in raising educational standards and fostering innovation, contributing significantly to the broader objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. With an unwavering commitment to quality education, the center stands as a beacon of progress in nurturing a generation equipped to face the challenges of tomorrow.
