Limerick joins UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities

Plans in place to achieve a UNESCO Learning City Award  for 2017 for commitment to Lifelong Learning in Limerick
Limerick has become a member of a select group of 49 cities across the world recognised for their work in the area of lifelong learning.
A Certificate of Membership for Limerick to join the UNESCO Institute of Lifelong Learning Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC) has been received following a recent application made by the Learning Limerick Steering Group.
Learning Limerick is the regional group for networks and organisations with a role in learning in Limerick. It’s hosted by Limerick City and County Council and supports and promotes lifelong learning. The group runs the very successful annual Limerick Lifelong Learning Festival, which is now in its sixth year. It has proven to be an extremely effective mechanism for bringing education providers from all sectors together to promote both formal and informal learning activities and to connect with learners right across the region.
John Buttery from PAUL Partnership, who is on the Learning Limerick Steering Group said: “This is a great achievement for Limerick and we are looking forward to being part of the dynamic network of international learning cities, sharing learning, and working closely with UNESCO.  It is an international policy-oriented network for inspiration, know-how and best practice.  There are currently 49 member cities representing 22 countries. Nationally, Limerick works closely with our partners, Cork, who are also members of the network.”
“We were delighted to host a visit from the National Commission for UNESCO on Friday 19th August. This meeting was an opportunity to discuss our upcoming application to achieve a Learning City Award 2017 from UNESCO.  The award is given to cities that, by putting in place the building blocks of a learning city, have achieved exceptional progress in promoting lifelong learning.  We are looking forward to showcasing Limerick and being part of the UNESCO network,” he added.