UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC)

The UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC) is one of the world’s most impactful initiatives promoting lifelong learning, inclusive education, and sustainable urban development. In 2025, UNESCO added three more Saudi cities—Riyadh, AlUla, and Riyadh Al-Khabra—highlighting the kingdom’s growing commitment to human capital development under Saudi Vision 2030.
This article explains the meaning of GNLC, its key features, benefits, and India’s participation, making it highly relevant for students, researchers, policymakers, and UPSC aspirants.

What is the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC)?

The Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC) is an international network led by UNESCO that recognises cities providing lifelong learning opportunities for people of all ages.
Its goal is to build cities where learning is accessible, equitable, and aligned with future development needs.

Key Purpose

• Promote quality education for all

• Support community-based learning

• Strengthen cities’ social, economic, and environmental sustainability

The GNLC forms part of UNESCO’s Education 2030 Agenda and supports SDG 4 (Quality Education).

History and Growth of GNLC

• Established: 2013

• Total Cities (2025): 425

• Countries Represented: 91

• People Impacted: Nearly 500 million worldwide

The network has rapidly expanded, becoming a global platform for sharing best practices on adult learning, digital transformation, and community-driven education.

Objectives of the UNESCO GNLC

The GNLC aims to create cities where learning is:

1. Lifelong and Continuous

Education extends beyond schools to workplaces, communities, and digital platforms.

2. Inclusive and Equitable

Programs target youth, adults, senior citizens, and marginalised groups.

3. Skill-Oriented and Future-Ready

Focus on digital knowledge, AI readiness, vocational skills, and entrepreneurship.

4. Linked to Sustainable Development

Learning supports environmental protection, social inclusion, and innovation—directly contributing to SDGs.

Key Features of a UNESCO Learning City

To gain GNLC recognition, a city must show strong performance in the following areas:

1. Lifelong Learning Ecosystem

• Integration of formal, non-formal, and informal education

• Collaboration between government, institutions, and communities

2. Digital Transformation & AI Readiness

• Training for digital skills

• Preparing citizens for technological shifts and future jobs

3. Literacy and Skills Development

• Adult literacy programs

• Youth skill development initiatives

• Training for vulnerable groups

4. Innovation & Entrepreneurship

• Support for startups and creativity

• Workforce reskilling programmes

5. Sustainability and Inclusion

• Learning linked to sustainable development goals

• Community participation and social responsibility

GNLC 2025 Update: Saudi Arabia’s New Member Cities

In its 2025 update, UNESCO added three Saudi cities:

• Riyadh

• AlUla

• Riyadh Al-Khabra

Total Saudi Learning Cities: 8

Why They Were Selected

• Strong learning ecosystems

• Digital and future-ready education programs

• Community participation in sustainability initiatives

• Alignment with Saudi Vision 2030 and the Human Capability Development Program

This move highlights the country’s focus on transforming education, skills, and workforce readiness.

India in the Global Network of Learning Cities

India has three cities recognised under the 2022 GNLC cohort:

1. Warangal (Telangana)

2. Thrissur (Kerala)

3. Nilambur (Kerala)

Why These Indian Cities Were Selected

• Effective literacy campaigns

• Learning in public spaces such as parks and museums

• Strong community engagement

• Environmental and cultural learning initiatives

India’s participation strengthens its commitment to inclusive education and skill development aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP 2020).

Importance of GNLC in Today’s World

The GNLC model is essential because:

• Urbanisation is increasing globally

• Lifelong learning is crucial for economic growth

• Digital and AI-related jobs require constant upskilling

• Societies need adaptable, skilled, and educated citizens

• Sustainable learning cities improve quality of life

For governments, GNLC membership enhances credibility and global partnerships.

Benefits of Becoming a UNESCO Learning City

For Citizens

• Improved access to education

• Digital literacy and future skills

• Better job opportunities

• Inclusive learning for all age groups

For Cities

• Global recognition

• Enhanced policy frameworks

• International collaboration

• Strengthened innovation and entrepreneurship

For Nations

• Stronger human capital

• Sustainable development

• Social and economic resilience

Conclusion

The UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC) represents a groundbreaking effort to make education a lifelong, community-wide, and future-oriented priority.
With the 2025 inclusion of Riyadh, AlUla, and Riyadh Al-Khabra, Saudi Arabia strengthens its position as a regional leader in learning-based development. India’s own GNLC cities show how local innovation and community participation can transform learning ecosystems.
As the world shifts toward digitalisation and sustainability, GNLC cities will play a crucial role in shaping skilled, informed, and resilient societies.

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