UNESCO Learning City Awardee 2024Doha, Qatar
With a focus on human, social, economic, and environmental development, Doha as the capital of Qatar, has embraced lifelong learning as a cornerstone of its growth.
Grounded in the Qatar National Vision 2030 and aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals as well as the objectives of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities, Doha has made remarkable progress in advancing lifelong learning for all its citizens.
Grounded in the Qatar National Vision 2030 and aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals as well as the objectives of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities, Doha has made remarkable progress in advancing lifelong learning for all its citizens.
Mansour Ajraan AlboenainThe General Director of Doha Municipality
"The city of Doha is distinguished by a blend of rich traditions and advanced modernity, making it a vibrant city full of innovation and progress. Education occupies a central place at the heart of its identity, from prestigious universities to innovative learning centers.
Our membership in the Global Network of Learning Cities has reinforced the Ministry of the Municipality's commitment to transforming Doha into a comprehensive community learning hub that enhances growth opportunities for all segments of society.
We have achieved significant milestones in this regard, from developing advanced educational and awareness programmes to providing an environment that fosters creativity and intergenerational interaction. These efforts align with Qatar’s National Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals, contributing to empowering individuals to face challenges and achieve sustainable successes that live up to the aspirations of the State of Qatar."
Our membership in the Global Network of Learning Cities has reinforced the Ministry of the Municipality's commitment to transforming Doha into a comprehensive community learning hub that enhances growth opportunities for all segments of society.
We have achieved significant milestones in this regard, from developing advanced educational and awareness programmes to providing an environment that fosters creativity and intergenerational interaction. These efforts align with Qatar’s National Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals, contributing to empowering individuals to face challenges and achieve sustainable successes that live up to the aspirations of the State of Qatar."
A learning city at the heart of Qatar
By conducting city-wide surveys and interactive meetings, Doha has crafted educational policies that reflect the community's diverse needs.
With partnerships spanning schools, public institutions, and private enterprises, the city is building an ecosystem which aims to provide learning opportunities for all of Doha’s citizens.
With partnerships spanning schools, public institutions, and private enterprises, the city is building an ecosystem which aims to provide learning opportunities for all of Doha’s citizens.
Commitment to funding and innovative partnerships
Doha has exemplified a proactive approach to resource mobilization, bringing together diverse stakeholders to ensure the sustainability of its learning city initiatives. T
Through strategic partnerships with both public and private sector entities, the city has not only secured a 15% budget increase for lifelong learning programmes but also pioneered innovative funding models that maximize impact.
Private partners have supported educational campaigns and community initiatives, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the city’s development.
These partnerships have extended to grassroots organizations, cultural institutions, and international organizations, creating a network of resources that drives local programmes while aligning with global standards.
By linking educational projects with broader urban initiatives—such as environmental sustainability and health campaigns—the city has ensured that funding is used efficiently and holistically. For example, the integration of digital learning tools, supported by public-private collaboration, has made educational content widely accessible while reducing costs.
Through strategic partnerships with both public and private sector entities, the city has not only secured a 15% budget increase for lifelong learning programmes but also pioneered innovative funding models that maximize impact.
Private partners have supported educational campaigns and community initiatives, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the city’s development.
These partnerships have extended to grassroots organizations, cultural institutions, and international organizations, creating a network of resources that drives local programmes while aligning with global standards.
By linking educational projects with broader urban initiatives—such as environmental sustainability and health campaigns—the city has ensured that funding is used efficiently and holistically. For example, the integration of digital learning tools, supported by public-private collaboration, has made educational content widely accessible while reducing costs.
Community learning platforms: Building bridges to inclusivity
One of Doha’s standout achievements has been the creation of community learning platforms in partnership with local educational institutions.
These platforms have led to a 25% increase in enrolment for adult education programmes over the past two years, particularly benefiting marginalized groups. Residents have access to diverse learning opportunities that empower them with essential skills, fostering greater social cohesion.
The impact extends beyond numbers. Public satisfaction with learning and awareness initiatives has risen by 10%, reflecting the city's commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment. Through these platforms, Doha exemplifies how lifelong learning can be a driver of equity and development.
These platforms have led to a 25% increase in enrolment for adult education programmes over the past two years, particularly benefiting marginalized groups. Residents have access to diverse learning opportunities that empower them with essential skills, fostering greater social cohesion.
The impact extends beyond numbers. Public satisfaction with learning and awareness initiatives has risen by 10%, reflecting the city's commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment. Through these platforms, Doha exemplifies how lifelong learning can be a driver of equity and development.
Wellness education: A health-conscious city in action
The Wellness Education Programme in Doha showcases the city's approach to health and equity. Through workshops, seminars, and campaigns, residents learn about nutrition, physical activity, and mental health. This initiative has reached over 3,000 participants, including school students, blue-collar workers, and senior citizens, promoting health and well-being across demographics.
Collaboration with health organizations and community representatives has been a cornerstone of this initiative. By integrating health policies into urban planning and providing equitable access to green spaces, Doha is not only enhancing individual well-being but also strengthening its position as a globally recognized health-conscious city.
Collaboration with health organizations and community representatives has been a cornerstone of this initiative. By integrating health policies into urban planning and providing equitable access to green spaces, Doha is not only enhancing individual well-being but also strengthening its position as a globally recognized health-conscious city.
Mesbeh Sheban Alkuwari Director of the General Director of Doha Municipality Office
"Through our diverse and innovative programmes, we strive to teach young generations agricultural skills and the importance of conserving natural resources, instilling values of sustainability and responsibility towards our environment.
We believe that these initiatives play a crucial role in fostering a love for nature, raising environmental awareness, as well as encouraging creativity and thinking that contribute to preparing future leaders committed to sustainability.
We aspire for our gardens to be not just green spaces for relaxation and recreation, but also inspiring educational platforms that plant the seeds of awareness and innovation, contributing to building a community that is more conscious and concerned about its environmental future."
We believe that these initiatives play a crucial role in fostering a love for nature, raising environmental awareness, as well as encouraging creativity and thinking that contribute to preparing future leaders committed to sustainability.
We aspire for our gardens to be not just green spaces for relaxation and recreation, but also inspiring educational platforms that plant the seeds of awareness and innovation, contributing to building a community that is more conscious and concerned about its environmental future."
Education for sustainable development
Doha’s Planting with Doha Municipality initiative demonstrates its commitment to sustainability and environmental education. By expanding urban green spaces, introducing community gardening projects, and promoting biodiversity, the city has strengthened its efforts to addressing climate challenges.
With the introduction of Qatar's first inclusive playground and the development of Sustainability Park, Doha has combined environmental protection with community engagement.
With the introduction of Qatar's first inclusive playground and the development of Sustainability Park, Doha has combined environmental protection with community engagement.
Sarah AlkhelaifiLearner and Sustainability Ambassador of Doha
"I am very proud to be the Sustainability Ambassador in the city of Doha and to be part of the educational and awareness programs organized by Doha Municipality, which taught me the importance of the environment and how to care for it, such as planting trees, conserving natural resources, and how to share these ideas with my friends and family.
I learned how small actions, like taking care of plants or reducing plastic use, can make a big difference in our world.
I am very grateful for our beautiful city of Doha and Doha Municipality, which have cared for my education and skill development, and made me feel that I can contribute to a sustainable future for all of us."
I learned how small actions, like taking care of plants or reducing plastic use, can make a big difference in our world.
I am very grateful for our beautiful city of Doha and Doha Municipality, which have cared for my education and skill development, and made me feel that I can contribute to a sustainable future for all of us."
Harnessing technology for lifelong learning
Doha has embraced innovative technological approaches to amplify its educational initiatives and awareness campaigns, showcasing its commitment to modern, accessible learning methods.
One effective strategy has been the integration of QR code systems to promote environmental conservation and sustainability education. These codes, printed on workers’ shirts, serve as a creative tool to increase awareness of critical environmental issues, reaching individuals in their everyday settings.
In addition to this, Doha has pledged to make all materials related to lifelong learning, sustainability, and environmental awareness widely available through digital platforms, including social media.
By leveraging technology in this way, Doha is not only enhancing the reach and impact of its lifelong learning initiatives but also reinforcing its role as a forward-thinking learning city dedicated to innovation.
One effective strategy has been the integration of QR code systems to promote environmental conservation and sustainability education. These codes, printed on workers’ shirts, serve as a creative tool to increase awareness of critical environmental issues, reaching individuals in their everyday settings.
In addition to this, Doha has pledged to make all materials related to lifelong learning, sustainability, and environmental awareness widely available through digital platforms, including social media.
By leveraging technology in this way, Doha is not only enhancing the reach and impact of its lifelong learning initiatives but also reinforcing its role as a forward-thinking learning city dedicated to innovation.
Fostering inclusion through education
Doha has prioritized formal education through inclusive curriculum development and accessibility initiatives. Qatar’s inclusive education policy supports over 167,000 students annually, ensuring that language support and specialized instruction meet learners’ diverse needs.
Early childhood care programmes now benefit 90% of children aged 3–5, equipping 25,000 children annually with foundational skills.
For learners with disabilities, Doha has adopted a mainstreaming strategy, with half of the country’s special needs centres located in the city.
The commitment to inclusion extends to specialized initiatives like the Centre for Elderly Empowerment & Care, which empowers 300 elderly participants annually; the programme facilitates active aging, promoting knowledge and skills acquisition among older adults.
Early childhood care programmes now benefit 90% of children aged 3–5, equipping 25,000 children annually with foundational skills.
For learners with disabilities, Doha has adopted a mainstreaming strategy, with half of the country’s special needs centres located in the city.
The commitment to inclusion extends to specialized initiatives like the Centre for Elderly Empowerment & Care, which empowers 300 elderly participants annually; the programme facilitates active aging, promoting knowledge and skills acquisition among older adults.
A city committed to lifelong learning
Doha’s journey as a learning city is a reflection of its broader vision to provide a high standard of living for all its residents. By embedding lifelong learning into its policies and initiatives, the city has created an environment where education and community engagement thrive.
As a member of the GNLC, Doha continues to share its knowledge and experiences, contributing to global discussions on sustainable urban development. Its holistic approach to learning and innovation makes Doha a shining example of how cities can pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.
As a member of the GNLC, Doha continues to share its knowledge and experiences, contributing to global discussions on sustainable urban development. Its holistic approach to learning and innovation makes Doha a shining example of how cities can pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.
The UNESCO Learning City Awards
The UNESCO Learning City Award was established to further promote lifelong learning for all and showcase good practices in building learning cities. It is conferred on cities that have achieved outstanding progress in this regard. All awardee cities have demonstrated best practices that lay the foundation for sustainable development.
The UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities
The UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC) supports and improves the practice of lifelong learning in member cities by promoting policy dialogue and peer learning, documenting effective strategies and good practice, fostering partnerships, providing capacity development, and developing tools and instruments to design, implement and monitor learning cities strategies.
UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities
© City of Doha; oneinchpunch / Shutterstock.com; Fitria Ramli / Shutterstock.com; EQRoy / Shutterstock.com; Shadow of light / Shutterstock.com; one photo / Shutterstock.com; RauL C7 / Shutterstock.com; Getty Images Pro / Stock Good
UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities
© City of Doha; oneinchpunch / Shutterstock.com; Fitria Ramli / Shutterstock.com; EQRoy / Shutterstock.com; Shadow of light / Shutterstock.com; one photo / Shutterstock.com; RauL C7 / Shutterstock.com; Getty Images Pro / Stock Good
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Doha, Qatar
Mansour Ajraan Alboenain
A learning city at the heart of Qatar
Commitment to funding and innovative partnerships
Community learning platforms: Building bridges to inclusivity
Wellness education: A health-conscious city in action
Mesbeh Sheban Alkuwari
Education for sustainable development
Sarah Alkhelaifi
Harnessing technology for lifelong learning
Fostering inclusion through education
A city committed to lifelong learning
The UNESCO Learning City Awards
The UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities