Source:- Zee Business

Three of Saudi Arabia's cities have been added to the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities, which is another step toward building a society based on knowledge. Riyadh, AlUla, and Riyadh Al Khabra are the three new cities that have been recognized. The Kingdom now has eight learning cities, which is a big step forward in Saudi Arabia's plan to improve its education system and promote lifelong learning in line with international standards.

 UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities 2025 update said that the cities met the organization's standards for encouraging lifelong learning at all stages of life. UNESCO rates cities based on how well they can make learning a part of schools, workplaces, public institutions, and community spaces. The new cities are now part of the list of cities that already included Jubail, Yanbu, Madinah, Al Ahsa, and King Abdullah Economic City. These eight cities show that the country is becoming more committed to making learning pathways open and welcoming to people of all ages.

 UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities called the chosen cities "dynamic environments" that help people grow personally and professionally. The organization says that the cities have done very well in a number of important areas. These include giving people more chances to learn new skills and improve their existing ones, helping people who may have missed early formal education become more literate, and getting communities ready for quick changes in technology, especially those related to artificial intelligence. UNESCO also said that the cities are encouraging entrepreneurial thinking, which is necessary for building strong, competitive, and creative local economies.

The award fits well with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. The Kingdom's long-term strategy now focuses on reforming education, developing human capital, and getting ready for new technologies. Officials have said many times how important it is to create a society that can keep learning as the global job market changes. The fact that these three cities are now part of the UNESCO network shows that the Kingdom is serious about these goals.

Education experts in Saudi Arabia see the designation as a strong sign of support for the country's efforts to modernize and digitize its schools. The Ministry of Education and local governments have launched a number of programs in recent years to improve digital literacy, teacher training, vocational programs, and adult education opportunities. The newly recognized cities have also started programs that focus on the community and encourage people to take part in cultural events, innovation challenges, and workshops on lifelong learning.

The capital, Riyadh, has been a key part of the Kingdom's plans for education and digital change. The city has put money into smart learning systems, cutting-edge research centers, and training platforms that give residents the skills they need for the economy of the future. Being part of the UNESCO network shows that work is still being done to create a learning culture that is open to everyone, young and old.

AlUla is known around the world for its historical and cultural importance. It has taken a unique approach by combining its efforts to protect its heritage with modern educational programs. The city has started programs that help people learn about the environment, culture, and skills related to tourism. As the area grows quickly, education officials have made it a priority to teach people the skills they need to work in new industries.

Riyadh Al Khabra, which is in the Qassim region, has also made a lot of progress in making educational opportunities more accessible. The city has started programs that help people get online, improve their reading and writing skills, and work together with schools and businesses in the area. Its entry into the UNESCO network shows how smaller cities are becoming more important to the national agenda.

The fact that more Saudi cities are now part of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities makes the Kingdom's reputation in the world of education even stronger. It also shows that Saudi Arabia is dedicated to creating a society where everyone can learn and grow, both personally and professionally, and help the community grow.

These learning cities are expected to become more and more important as the Kingdom works on Vision 2030 and diversifies its economy. Their work is helping to build a society based on knowledge that is driven by new ideas, lifelong learning, and a skilled workforce that is ready to adapt to a world that is changing quickly.

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