Fujairah has been officially recognized as a UNESCO Global Learning City (GNLC), joining a network of 72 new cities committed to lifelong learning. This designation underscores the emirate’s growing investment in education and skills development, aiming to foster a knowledge-based economy and improve the quality of life for its residents. The announcement highlights Fujairah’s strategic alignment with the UAE’s national vision for education and its dedication to creating accessible learning opportunities for all.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) made the announcement, acknowledging Fujairah’s comprehensive approach to learning that extends beyond traditional educational institutions. According to UNESCO, the GNLC network supports cities in developing and sharing innovative strategies to promote inclusive and effective lifelong learning. This recognition positions Fujairah as a key player in regional educational advancement.
Fujairah’s Journey to Becoming a Learning City
The UAE has demonstrated a strong commitment to education and human capital development, and Fujairah’s inclusion in the UNESCO GNLC network is a direct result of this national strategy. UAE Minister of Culture Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi stated the membership reflects the nation’s dedication to these core principles. The emirate’s leadership, including Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi and Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, has prioritized educational infrastructure and digital literacy as cornerstones of its development plan.
This strategic vision is closely linked to UAE Vision 2031 and the National Strategy for Education 2030, both of which emphasize the importance of lifelong learning and a skilled workforce. The focus extends beyond formal education to encompass vocational training, community programs, and initiatives that promote cultural understanding and civic engagement. This holistic approach is central to Fujairah’s learning city ambitions.
Medium- and Long-Term Goals
Fujairah’s plan for implementing its GNLC status is structured around both medium- and long-term objectives. Over the next 3-5 years, the emirate intends to strengthen its existing educational infrastructure, expand access to digital skills training, and cultivate a network of community-based learning hubs. Additionally, efforts will be made to enhance local artistic talent and develop a tailored Learning City Strategy to guide future initiatives.
Looking further ahead, the long-term goals (5-10 years) include establishing Fujairah as a regional leader in lifelong learning, achieving educational equity for all residents, and expanding international collaborations. A key component will be developing a highly skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving job market. The emirate also plans to implement robust systems for measuring the impact of its learning initiatives, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement.
Community and Cultural Engagement
Under the patronage of Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Fujairah has launched several programs designed to foster community engagement and cultural enrichment. The Majlis Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi serves as an inclusive platform for dialogue on culture, innovation, and civic participation. This initiative aims to create a space where residents can share ideas and contribute to the emirate’s development.
Furthermore, the Young Techpreneurs program focuses on developing essential skills in areas like artificial intelligence, programming, and cybersecurity for children aged 7-15. The annual Fujairah Children’s Book Fair promotes literacy, storytelling, and inclusive education, encouraging a love of reading among young people. These programs demonstrate a commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators and leaders.
Sustainability and Inclusive Learning
Fujairah’s commitment to lifelong learning extends to promoting sustainable and healthy lifestyles. The Wadi Wurayah Education Programme focuses on biodiversity and conservation, raising awareness about the importance of protecting the environment. The “Together We Move” initiative provides free fitness classes and wellness workshops, encouraging residents to prioritize their physical and mental health.
Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, Fujairah also offers vocational training and community support for vulnerable populations, including individuals with disabilities, low-income families, migrant workers, and seniors. These programs aim to provide equal opportunities for all residents to acquire the skills and knowledge they need to thrive. Skills development is a key component of this inclusive approach.
Bridging Education and Employment
A crucial aspect of Fujairah’s learning city strategy is connecting education with the labor market. The Business Incubation Programme provides skill-building and mentorship for aspiring entrepreneurs, helping them to launch and grow their own businesses. The Leadership Programme focuses on developing the capabilities of public sector employees, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of government services.
Entrepreneurial clubs have been established in schools to encourage youth business planning and innovation. Moreover, the emirate is actively pursuing gender equality initiatives to ensure equal access to education and professional development opportunities for both women and men. These efforts are designed to create a dynamic and competitive workforce that can drive economic growth.
The successful implementation of Fujairah’s GNLC strategy will require ongoing collaboration between government agencies, educational institutions, community organizations, and the private sector. The next step involves finalizing the localized Learning City Strategy and securing funding for key initiatives. Monitoring progress against established benchmarks and adapting to changing needs will be crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of the program. The impact of these initiatives on economic growth and social well-being will be closely watched in the coming years.