An aerial view of Fujairah. ARCHIVE

Fujairah has officially become a member of UNESCO’s Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC), joining 72 newly admitted cities from 46 countries recognized for promoting lifelong learning for all. The network, launched in 2013, now includes 425 cities from 91 countries, supporting nearly 500 million residents worldwide. UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Education Stefania Giannini said the newly admitted cities are “turning every street, library, workplace, museum, and home into a space for knowledge and innovation.” Fujairah’s Learning City Project focuses on strengthening educational infrastructure, improving digital literacy, building community learning hubs, developing artistic and creative talent, and formulating a long-term strategy for lifelong learning. Over the next five to ten years, the emirate aims to become a regional leader in education, expand international partnerships, and build a skilled workforce aligned with future needs. Several initiatives under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, play a central role in this vision. These include Majlis Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, which encourages cultural dialogue and policy discussions; the Young Techpreneurs programme, launched in 2025 to teach children skills in coding, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity; and the Fujairah Children’s Book Fair, which promotes literacy through workshops, storytelling sessions, and activities for children with diverse learning needs. Fujairah also promotes sustainability and wellness through the Wadi Wurayah Protected Area Education Programme and the Together We Move campaign, which offers free fitness classes and workshops in public parks. Additional programmes support inclusion, including tolerance initiatives in schools, vocational training for people with disabilities and low-income families, and targeted services for migrant workers and seniors. Commenting on Fujairah’s admission, Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, UAE Minister of Culture, said the milestone reflects the UAE’s commitment to advancing education, innovation, and cultural development. “The emirate’s inclusion in the network stands as a testament to its strategic vision in expanding lifelong learning opportunities and cultivating a sustainable knowledge-based economy,” he said. Mohammed Al Dhanhani, Director of the Fujairah Emiri Court, said the membership recognises Fujairah’s achievements in strengthening education under the leadership of Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Ruler of Fujairah, and the Crown Prince. He said the move aligns with UAE Vision 2031 and the National Strategy for Education 2030, adding that the recognition will accelerate current learning initiatives and support sustainable development in the emirate. ICA/Expat Media
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