PARIS: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has introduced an award proposed by South Korea to honor initiatives that advance education on global issues, including human rights, sustainability, and diversity, as announced by the South Korean foreign ministry. The decision was made during UNESCO’s executive board meeting held in Paris, with the award set to be granted biennially to two organizations or entities, each receiving a prize of $50,000, starting in 2025.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the new award aims to highlight efforts in global citizenship education, a concept that promotes civic learning and fosters a global understanding of universal values such as peace, human rights, and cultural diversity. This educational approach is also a part of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. An international jury composed of independent experts will be responsible for recommending candidates for the award, while the final winners will be chosen by the UNES
CO director general.
The South Korean foreign ministry expressed that the establishment of this award is anticipated to showcase exemplary cases of global citizenship education. It is also expected to further the spirit of peace and mutual respect within the international community, offering recognition and encouragement to those contributing significantly to these educational efforts.