Latest news with #EducationforSustainableDevelopment
Al Etihad
22-07-2025
- General
- Al Etihad
Abu Dhabi taps youth in mission to turn climate intention into action across GCC
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI) With the UAE capital officially recognised as a centre of expertise for environmental education and sustainability, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) is determined to transform eco-awareness into tangible community action – and the youth would be driving force in this mission. In a first for the GCC, Abu Dhabi recently secured membership in the United Nations University (UNU) network of Regional Centres of Expertise (RCEs) on Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). The EAD is spearheading this regional mission. Speaking to Aletihad, Ahmed Baharoon, Executive Director for Environmental Information, Science, and Outreach Management at EAD, explained Abu Dhabi's priorities as RCE: 'The Regional Centre of Expertise in Abu Dhabi (Abu Dhabi - RCE) focuses on bridging the gaps in addressing the diverse environmental challenges facing the region, including climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.' 'This initiative directly contributes to SDG 4.7 by building knowledge and skills for sustainable development, and supports SDG 13.3 by enhancing education and capacity-building on climate change, encompassing policy, conservation, and technological solutions,' he added. The goal is to link education with concrete climate action, Baharoon said, and empowering the youth - the future environmental stewards - is central to achieving this. 'To ensure the RCE's relevance and impact, the youth must play a central role - through advisory boards, leading initiatives, and active participation in decision-making. Their ideas, energy, and unique perspectives are vital to tackling sustainability challenges,' he said. The youth has already made a mark. The youth-led 'Generation Restoration', for example, has helped shape Abu Dhabi's road map during 2024 World Environmental Education Congress. Their voice and insights will remain crucial in the centre's development. The RCE's establishment marks only the beginning of Challenge 6.3 under the UNEP Action Plan for the Decade of Ecosystem Restoration. Empowering 'Generation Restoration' through youth-focused curricula (for ages 10–16 and 16+) and 5,000 collaborative partnerships would be a key measure of success. Baharoon outlined clear markers that would indicate the RCE's success over the next five years. '[These] include achieving a significant increase in community engagement in sustainability initiatives; realising measurable positive impacts on local environmental conditions; the development and dissemination of innovative educational resources and programmes; and the establishment of strong, collaborative partnerships across various sectors,' he said. Shaping Eco Lifestyles As it reaches out to the community, Abu Dhabi – RCE aims to drive climate action by offering field-based learning, tapping into cultural knowledge, and promoting behavioural change. EAD's naha platform will play a key role in supporting this mission. Available online, naha serves as an environmental lifestyle guide, providing a single access point to EAD's initiatives. 'Through 'my naha', users receive a personalised climate lifestyle journey, accessible 24/7, with a special emphasis on engaging younger generations,' according to information on The naha platform is more than a digital tool, Baharoon said. 'It is a central hub for collaboration and learning, offering interactive modules, workshops, and forums to engage stakeholders in advancing sustainability. It underpins the RCE's work by making its resources widely accessible across the region.' Scaling impact across the GCC is another priority for the RCE, Baharoon said, 'Starting with our Abu Dhabi initiatives, we will support the Ministry of Education at the UAE level, and make our online platforms naha and e-GREEN regionally accessible.' A Greener Future Looking ahead, Baharoon said the RCE recognition will 'elevate Abu Dhabi's standing to become a key driving force in transformative learning and climate action'. 'It will attract increased investment towards environmental initiatives and provide a strong platform to adopt innovative environmental education initiatives, exchange best practices, and foster collaboration across government, NGOs, and the community,' he added. In the future, the EAD official sees the Abu Dhabi – RCE 'expanding its network of partners, deepening its engagement with local communities, and developing innovative programmes that address emerging sustainability challenges'. 'This includes a greater focus on areas such as climate change adaptation, nature-based solutions, the circular economy, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable urban development,' he said.
Time of India
22-07-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Trump orders UNESCO exit, dismantling decades of US leadership in global education
(AP Photo/Thomas Padilla) America's relationship with global education just took another step backward. The United States has announced its decision to withdraw from UNESCO , the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, for the third time in history, setting a December 2026 departure that underscores a renewed turn toward isolation under Donald Trump's second-term foreign policy. This move strikes at the heart of international collaboration in education, culture, and science. For decades, UNESCO has been a hub for setting global learning goals, protecting cultural heritage, and fostering inclusive classrooms in regions affected by war, poverty, and inequality. Withdrawing now sends a clear message: the US no longer wishes to shape or share the educational agenda of the global community. Education left in the crossfire UNESCO's influence in global education is vast. From coordinating curriculum frameworks and teacher development to leading international responses on learning equity, digital access, and media literacy, the agency plays a crucial role in strengthening systems worldwide. The US, until recently a key funder and policy voice—will now lose critical ground in a domain where global cooperation is not a luxury, but a necessity. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Big Tummy? Do It Before Bedtime And Lose Weight While You Sleep Beauty Ideas Read More Undo Beyond symbolic politics, the decision could stall joint education projects, limit academic exchange, and reduce US input in shaping the direction of initiatives like Education for Sustainable Development, Futures of Education, and global citizenship programmes. An unsteady partnership repeats history This latest exit follows a familiar script. The US first withdrew from UNESCO in 1983 under President Reagan, citing anti-Western bias. It rejoined in 2003 under President George W. Bush, only to exit again in 2017 during Trump's first term. The Biden administration reversed that decision in 2023, citing the need to counter China's rising influence, clear unpaid dues, and re-engage in projects on Holocaust remembrance and education in vulnerable regions. Now, with Trump doubling down on a nationalist agenda, UNESCO has again become a casualty of ideological conflict. Global education, local consequences While the administration frames the exit as a defense of national interest, the fallout will be felt by educators, researchers, and students, both in the US and abroad. Programmes fostering intercultural dialogue, training teachers in conflict zones, and supporting inclusive education models will move forward without American partnership. UNESCO has stated that it has diversified its funding sources and prepared for such a scenario. But the absence of the US, once among its largest financial backers and policy contributors, diminishes the collective strength of international efforts to build equitable learning environments in a divided world. The bigger question As global education faces challenges ranging from digital inequality to disinformation, this decision raises a critical question: Can the US afford to isolate itself from the very networks that shape how future generations learn, think, and connect? By choosing exit over engagement, America may not just be retreating from UNESCO, it may be retreating from the future of education itself. Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
The Sun
24-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Taylor's scales ESG across 10 regional schools and campuses
SUBANG JAYA: Taylor's Education Group (TEG) has institutionalised environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles across its three higher education institutions and seven international schools in Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam. Chairman Datuk Loy Teik Ngan said this is a coordinated, group-wide push towards climate-conscious learning and campus operations. 'At Taylor's, we see sustainability as a core responsibility of a future-ready institution. Our efforts are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 13 on climate action,' he said at the Taylor's ESG Festival, themed 'Embedding Impact: From Action to Culture', held at Taylor's Lakeside Campus. Loy added 'By embedding ESG into our campuses and daily operations, we are well positioned to strengthen our resilience to climate-related risks, contributing to the global net-zero movement, and nurturing a culture of sustainability in our students, staff, and leadership. 'Sustainability isn't just a target to meet; it's a mindset we nurture, a behaviour we model, and a culture we live every day. Our goal is not just to create sustainable campuses, but to inspire a generation that sees sustainability as second nature, wherever they go and whatever they do.' Loy shared that initiatives such as 360-degree leadership appraisals and staff welfare improvements which were initially implemented without an ESG label are now recognised as part of TEG's broader social governance framework. 'We realised many things we were already doing like fostering transparency and launching affordable quality education through Lexel International School are in fact aligned with ESG. Knowing this, we can now be more intentional.' Loy said Lexel within Gamuda Gardens is aimed at providing quality education for families seeking affordable international education. Taylor's ESG strategy focuses on three pillars – delivering measurable impact, building sustainable learning environments, and embedding ESG principles into everyday operations. The first pillar strategy includes the deployment of a centralised impact measurement dashboard, designed to track carbon emissions and sustainability performance across all its institutions. 'This system enables each institution to take ownership of its sustainability journey—using data to guide decisions and track progress,' Loy said, adding that the dashboard also enhances transparency towards the group's net-zero goals and enables student-led research through 'living lab' opportunities. The second pillar focuses on turning campuses into living examples of sustainability, aligning with Unesco's Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) framework. Key initiatives include the Green Classroom Initiative, featuring recycled furnishings, natural ventilation, energy-efficient lighting and a no single-use plastic policy; the Sustainable Transport Plan, which aims to electrify shuttle fleets by 2030, expand electric vehicle charging infrastructure, promote carpooling and optimise commuting schedules using transport data; and Net-Zero Energy Campus pilots, such as British University Vietnam's EDGE-certified buildings alongside, solar panel installations, and Taylor's University's thermal energy storage system to reduce peak energy demand. The third pillar involves operational integration of ESG values through the rollout of a Green Procurement Policy, which prioritises low-emission, ethically sourced products and services. The festival gathered over 230 participants in a dynamic celebration of climate action, featuring corporate sustainability leaders, student-led initiatives, and social enterprises – marking a bold step in embedding ESG into campus culture and inspiring the next generation of changemakers across Southeast Asia.
Mid East Info
08-05-2025
- Science
- Mid East Info
Abu Dhabi Recognised as a Regional Centre of Expertise on Education for Sustainable Development by the United Nations University
As part of the Year of Community, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has successfully secured recognition for Abu Dhabi as a member of the United Nations University (UNU) network of Regional Centres of Expertise (RCEs) on Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). With this achievement, Abu Dhabi becomes the first centre of expertise for environmental education and sustainability in the GCC region. Through its digital platform naha, EAD will lead this regional mission, driving collective efforts to advance knowledge sharing, capacity building, and the adoption of best practices in education for sustainable development. This initiative aims to safeguard and sustain the environment, enhancing quality of life for current and future generations. Her Excellency Dr Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, said: 'The recognition of Abu Dhabi by the United Nations University as the first regional centre for environmental education in the region underscores our forward-thinking approach to sustainability. It marks our commitment to strengthening environmental awareness and education for sustainable development. By harnessing the latest innovations and modern technologies, we continue to reinforce Abu Dhabi's leadership in global environmental action.' She added: 'Environmental awareness and education are catalysts for conservation and development within our strategic framework. By broadening community engagement and forging regional and global partnerships, we are supporting the emirate's vision for a more sustainable and promising future for the generations to come.' Ahmed Baharoon, Executive Director of Environmental Information, Science, and Awareness at EAD, said: 'The naha platform forward-thinking and holistic strategy, seamlessly integrating a portfolio of initiatives and programs designed to empower community participation in environmental stewardship. These include the Sustainable Schools Initiative, recognised internationally by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Sustainable Campus Initiative, and the Sahim Citizen Science Programme. Leveraging Abu Dhabi's rich natural heritage, naha plays a key role in accelerating local and global sustainability efforts while nurturing a new generation of young leaders equipped to drive meaningful change.' He added: 'The acknowledgment of naha by the United Nations University as a Regional Centre of Expertise builds upon the extremely successful 12th World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC) held in Abu Dhabi early 2024, the launch of the Abu Dhabi Roadmap for Education for Sustainable Development, and demonstrates Abu Dhabi's commitment to the UN Decade of Ecosystem Restoration Action Plan Challenge 6.3 that called for the establishment of an RCE in Abu Dhabi.' The Regional Centres of Expertise (RCEs) on Education for Sustainable Development network operates under a multi-stakeholder governance structure, bringing together the expertise of government entities, non-governmental organisations, universities, and international organisations. This inclusive approach ensures the effectiveness of operations, with all stakeholders committed to advancing education for sustainable development and restoring ecosystems. As part of its role, EAD will establish a Steering Committee to serve as the centre's governing body, responsible for setting strategic direction and overseeing operations across multiple entities. The Agency will manage daily decision-making, operational supervision, and partner coordination. Additionally, the formation of an Advisory Committee will bring together experts and practitioners in ecosystem restoration and sustainable education to provide specialised knowledge and guidance. About Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) Established in 1996, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) is committed to protecting and enhancing air quality, groundwater as well as the biodiversity of our desert and marine ecosystem. By partnering with other government entities, the private sector, NGOs and global environmental agencies, we embrace international best practice, innovation and hard work to institute effective policy measures. We seek to raise environmental awareness, facilitate sustainable development and ensure environmental issues remain one of the top priorities of our national agenda.
Al Etihad
08-05-2025
- General
- Al Etihad
Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi secures Abu Dhabi's membership in United Nations University network of Regional Centres (RCEs) of Expertise on Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), first in the GCC
8 May 2025 16:10 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)As part of the Year of Community, the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) has secured recognition for Abu Dhabi as a member of the United Nations University (UNU) network of Regional Centres of Expertise (RCEs) on Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). With this achievement, Abu Dhabi becomes the first centre of expertise for environmental education and sustainability in the GCC its digital platform naha, EAD will lead this regional mission, driving collective efforts to advance knowledge sharing, capacity building, and the adoption of best practices in education for sustainable initiative aims to safeguard and sustain the environment, enhancing quality of life for current and future General of the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, Her Excellency Dr Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, said, 'The recognition of Abu Dhabi by the United Nations University as the first regional centre for environmental education in the region underscores our forward-thinking approach to sustainability. It marks our commitment to strengthening environmental awareness and education for sustainable development. By harnessing the latest innovations and modern technologies, we continue to reinforce Abu Dhabi's leadership in global environmental action.''Environmental awareness and education are catalysts for conservation and development within our strategic framework. By broadening community engagement and forging regional and global partnerships, we are supporting the emirate's vision for a more sustainable and promising future for the generations to come.'Executive Director of Environmental Information, Science, and Awareness at EAD, Ahmed Baharoon, said, 'The naha platform's forward-thinking and holistic strategy seamlessly integrates a portfolio of initiatives and programmes designed to empower community participation in environmental stewardship. These include the Sustainable Schools Initiative, recognised internationally by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Sustainable Campus Initiative, and the Sahim Citizen Science Programme. Leveraging Abu Dhabi's rich natural heritage, naha plays a key role in accelerating local and global sustainability efforts while nurturing a new generation of young leaders equipped to drive meaningful change.''The acknowledgment of naha by the United Nations University as a Regional Centre of Expertise builds upon the extremely successful 12th World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC) held in Abu Dhabi in early 2024, the launch of the Abu Dhabi Roadmap for Education for Sustainable Development and demonstrates Abu Dhabi's commitment to the UN Decade of Ecosystem Restoration Action Plan Challenge 6.3 that called for the establishment of an RCE in Abu Dhabi.'The Regional Centres of Expertise (RCEs) on Education for Sustainable Development network operates under a multi-stakeholder governance structure, bringing together the expertise of government entities, non-governmental organisations, universities, and international inclusive approach ensures the effectiveness of operations, with all stakeholders committed to advancing education for sustainable development and restoring part of its role, EAD will establish a Steering Committee to serve as the centre's governing body, responsible for setting strategic direction and overseeing operations across multiple agency will manage daily decision-making, operational supervision, and partner coordination. The formation of an advisory committee will bring together experts and practitioners in ecosystem restoration and sustainable education to provide specialised knowledge and guidance.
