Edmonton engages lifelong learning to tackle pressing challenges

Edmonton’s journey to achieving the UNESCO Learning City designation began in 2008, when it embraced the idea that education is the foundation of social inclusion, innovation and economic growth. 

“That year saw the city’s commitment to sustainable development take shape, with investments in climate action, Indigenous learning initiatives, and community partnerships,” says Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi. 

Edmonton is home to just over a million people today, but growing quickly, with about 12,000 more arriving each year. More than 125 languages are spoken in the city, which is home to the second-largest Indigenous population in Canada. Edmonton became the first Canadian member of UNESCO’s Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC) in 2022. The UNESCO designation recognizes Edmonton’s long-standing efforts to foster a culture of learning and make education accessible for residents of all ages and backgrounds. It also supports the city’s goal of attracting a million more residents over the next couple of decades.  

“The designation makes Edmonton an attractive destination for students, educators, innovators, and entrepreneurs” says Sohi. 

Members of the global network of 356 Learning Cities in 79 countries recognize the importance of lifelong learning to build resilient and inclusive communities, while encouraging economic development and sustainable environmental practices. 

“By bringing together diverse groups—including Indigenous communities, environmental advocates, cultural organizations and schools—we began to create an environment where learning and collaboration could drive our future” says Sohi. 

The path to becoming a UNESCO Learning City

Learning Cities commit to:

• Fostering inclusive learning everywhere, from schools to community centres, workplaces and cultural venues;

• Revitalizing learning by emphasizing that it happens throughout life and in a variety of settings;

• Promoting effective learning at workplaces so residents can develop job skills and adapt to technological and economic changes;

• Extending the use of modern learning technologies to ensure opportunities are available through digital platforms; and

• Enhancing excellence in learning by improving both the formal education system and informal learning initiatives.

Some specific initiatives that supported Edmonton’s GNLC application included:

• Programs highlighting the importance of Indigenous knowledge systems, such as language revitalization projects and community-based cultural learning;

• Neighbouring for Climate, a project that engaged communities in sustainable practices and taught residents how to take local action on climate change;

• Public-private partnerships that included post-secondary institutions, cultural centres and businesses to create a robust learning ecosystem; and

• Library- and community-based initiatives, including free learning programs, digital literacy initiatives, and workshops empowering residents of all ages to pursue lifelong learning.

Positive impacts for residents

“By providing access to international collaboration opportunities, membership in the GNLC helps cities benefit from inspiration, know-how and best practices. Edmonton can now learn and share with other leading learning cities,” says Sohi.

“It means our residents have access to a wealth of lifelong learning opportunities, from innovative programs and workshops to collaborations with local organizations that cater to diverse interests and needs. Membership encourages residents to continuously expand their horizons.”

Since joining the GNLC, Edmonton has already seen several positive impacts, such as:

• More equitable access to education, particularly for Indigenous communities, newcomers and marginalized groups;

• Indigenous-led educational programs that allow residents to reconnect with traditional knowledge and cultural practices;

• Greater community resilience and environmental stewardship as more residents get involved in addressing local environmental challenges;

• Economic growth and innovation from fostering digital literacy and supporting entrepreneurship; and 

• Social cohesion and cultural exchange as the city’s diverse population sees more opportunities to connect through shared learning.

A vision for Canada

Edmonton’s leaders hope the network will continue to grow in Canada, fostering a strong, interconnected system of cities that can share knowledge, resources and best practices, ultimately leading to more equitable and inclusive learning opportunities across the country. 

“We envision Canadian Learning Cities working together to tackle the pressing challenges of our time, such as poverty, inequality and climate change,” says Sohi. 

“Many Canadian cities are investing in building the capacity of their residents and have the potential to become part of the Global Network of Learning Cities. From coast to coast, the diversity of Canadian urban realities would make a valuable contribution to the network. Let’s hope that others will follow Edmonton’s example.” – Daniel Baril, Chair, The UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning

How other Canadian cities can join the Network

Building a successful learning city takes teamwork and planning. 

A strategic plan can help those involved to clarify goals and targets, focus on relevant areas and develop activities. It can also encourage stakeholders to get involved and help secure sustainable funding. 

Interested cities must demonstrate a strong commitment to lifelong learning and have the support of the mayor and city administration. They should have policies or initiatives that promote inclusive education, workplace learning, modern learning technologies, and community-based learning.

For more information, visit the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning’s webpage. You can also contact the Canadian Commission for UNESCO.