Learning Limerick presents on international stage in Switzerland
Limerick’s focus on promoting inclusive lifelong learning opportunities for all was highlighted at a forum in Switzerland.
The forum of European and North American UNESCO Learning Cities is a joint initiative of Évry-Courcouronnes and Cork with the support of the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning. Yvonne Lane, lifelong learning facilitator with Learning Limerick, travelled to Lausanne, Switzerland to represent Limerick. Learning Limerick joined other counties in representing Ireland at the second European and North American UNESCO Learning Cities Forum, taking place in Lausanne on Thursday, October 15 to Friday, October 16.
On the first day of the forum held in Lausanne City Hall, Yvonne Lane delivered a presentation titled ‘Connecting Lifelong Learning Partners for Impact’.
This talk showcased how Learning Limerick has brought relevant stakeholders in Limerick to work collaboratively in promoting inclusive lifelong learning opportunities for all; while also connecting with and advocating for learners.
This follows the model of best practice within UNESCO’s Global Network of Learning Cities which states: “a UNESCO learning city effectively mobilises its resources across all sectors to make lifelong learning a reality for all.”
The presentation from Limerick sparked “much interest and follow up discussion”, similar to the other inputs from the other visiting learning cities.
The second day of the forum involved delegates working together to progress work on a charter for the network, particularly in the context of preparation for the upcoming seventh UNESCO International Conference on Learning Cities being held next year.
The delegates’ commitment, creativity and sharing of experiences helped to make the forum a “rich learning experience”.
Michael MacCurtain, chair of Learning Limerick and network manager of Limerick Chamber Skillnet, outlined the positivity that Learning Limerick is bringing to the city.
“The work of Learning Limerick has become a real showcase of what’s possible when a whole city commits to learning,” he said.
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