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24 Jan 2024
Developing innovative sustainable learning strategies: insights from the UN SDG:Learn retreat
Towards the end of 2023, partners of the UN SDG:Learn, encompassing a diverse array from the United Nations (UN) system, the private sector, and academic institutions, convened to strategize the future of sustainable development learning. This crucial gathering occurs at a pivotal moment as the global community prepares for the forthcoming Summit of the Future, aiming to address critical global challenges and shape a resilient future.
Since its inception in 2019, UN SDG: Learn, a United Nations initiative, has offered curated learning solutions on sustainable development to both individuals and organizations. Expanding from a modest offering of over 100 courses, the initiative now boasts nearly 500, attracting over 1 million views this year and resulting in 3 million interactions, reflecting a growing global engagement on the topic of sustainable development.
Beyond raising awareness to impactful learning
In his opening address, Nikhil Seth, Executive Director of the United Nations Institute for Teaching and Training (UNITAR), emphasized the need for a strategic approach to support the creation of learning societies, and underscored the importance of globally recognizing education and lifelong learning as public goods.
"Collaborative partnerships are essential in developing open educational resources in various languages, accessible across boundaries," Patrick van Weerelt, Head of the UN System Staff College’s Knowledge Centre for Sustainable Development, stated.
The retreat focused on transitioning from raising awareness to fostering effective knowledge sharing and continuous learning. With the 2030 Agenda as a backdrop, discussions centred on learning as a critical tool in accelerating progress, especially amid global challenges. The importance of fostering a culture of collaborative learning, transcending borders and generations was stressed. The necessity of cultivating a culture of collaborative learning that transcends national borders and generational divides was a key focus, in line with the Summit of the Future's call for innovative approaches to education and lifelong learning.
Expert insights and strategic discussions
The retreat's discussions were enriched by insights from various experts. Mr. Georg Boch from Ubiquity University discussed AI's potential in learning, while Ms. Lourdes Rodriguez from Teach the Future explored youth engagement. Mr. Hannes Mac Nulty from Green Growth Knowledge Platform (GGKP) highlighted the role of purpose-driven companies, and Mr. Raphael Dard from the International Trade Center (ITC) delved into resistance to change. Dr. Rachel Bennett from the University of Gloucestershire spoke on growing inequalities.
High-level guest speakers further elevated the discourse. Ms. Anja Kaspersen from Carnegie Council and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and former director of the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs in Geneva and Deputy Secretary General of the Conference on Disarmament, shared her expertise on the ethical and security aspects of AI in learning. Prof. Gary Marcus from New York University offered a perspective on the human and cognitive challenges in deploying AI for learning.
Addressing the need for transformative learning
The retreat underscored the importance of creating accessible and effective learning programmes that bring about tangible cognitive and behavioral change. The emphasis was on designing impactful and transformative learning experiences that not only inform but also inspire action and change, addressing the complex and multifaceted nature of global sustainable development challenges.
Future outlook
The retreat concluded with a renewed commitment to partnership and collaboration, underscoring the urgency and limited time available to effect meaningful change. It highlighted the critical role of innovative learning strategies in shaping a sustainable future for all, in accordance with the goals of the Summit of the Future.
For organizations and leaders interested in fostering partnerships for sustainable development learning, UN SDG:Learn offers vast opportunities for collaboration and innovation. To explore our initiatives and potential partnerships, please visit the platform at www.unsdglearn.org or send us an email at jointsecretariat@unsdglearn.org.
Looking to shape your path in sustainable development?
Don't miss the UN SDG:Learn Syllabus 2024 Webinar! It's happening on 27 February 2024, from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. CET. Secure your spot by registering here: https://bit.ly/SDGSyllabus2024
Gratitude to partners
The Joint Secretariat, comprising the United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC) and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), expressed sincere gratitude for the unwavering support and contributions from all partners over the past four years. The call to action was unequivocal: to amplify efforts in making sustainable development learning more widespread, accessible, and aligned with the ambitious targets set for the upcoming Summit of the Future.
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