The 2023 UNESCO King Hamad Bin Isa Al-Khalifa Prize for the Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in Education has been awarded to two innovative projects that focus on the intersection of digital learning and environmental education. The winners, “Connecting the Dots: Data-Driven Carbon Literacy” and “EducoNetImpact,” were recognized for their efforts to harness technology to promote environmental and climate education.
Led by the GOGO School Teachers’ Association from the Republic of Korea, “Connecting the Dots: Data-Driven Carbon Literacy” engages students in collecting data on electricity consumption at home and school. By documenting usage habits and patterns, students are able to create databases to track and analyze energy consumption. The project has had a positive impact on students’ behaviors regarding electricity usage and has increased awareness of climate change issues. It spans four regions in the Republic of Korea and involves over 200 school students and 700 families.
Meanwhile, “EducoNetImpact,” led by researchers at the University of Mons in Belgium, supports teachers in effectively teaching about digital technology and its impact on the environment. The project, tested among 1,000 teachers with field experiments involving students, has demonstrated a positive impact on students’ awareness and behaviors. Students have been shown to adopt eco-responsible practices in the use of digital platforms and the recycling of digital devices.
The 2023 edition of the UNESCO ICT in Education Prize aimed to explore the synergies between digital learning and greening education, two priority areas highlighted during the Transforming Education Summit in 2022. The prize recognizes the importance of utilizing accessible digital tools to promote environmental and climate education while raising awareness about the environmental impact of digital technology.
The award ceremony for the 2023 UNESCO King Hamad Bin Isa Al-Khalifa Prize for the Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in Education is scheduled for 2 September 2024 during UNESCO’s flagship Digital Learning Week at its Paris headquarters. Dr. Mohammed bin Mubarak Juma, Minister of Education, extended congratulations to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, on this occasion.
An international jury reviewed 71 nominations submitted by 36 UNESCO Member States and three non-governmental organizations in official relations with UNESCO to select the two prize laureates. Each of the two winners will receive $25,000 for their work at the intersection of digital learning and greening education. These projects serve as examples of how technology can be used to promote sustainable practices and raise awareness about environmental issues among students and communities.
