Learning Limerick presents on international stage in Switzerland

LIMERICK has been represented on an international stage as Learning Cities from across Europe and North America joined together in Switzerland to share best practice and shape the governance of the new international learning network.

Yvonne Lane, lifelong learning facilitator with Learning Limerick, travelled to Lausanne, Switzerland to represent Limerick internationally.

Learning Limerick joined Waterford, Dublin, Belfast, North-Western Region and Cork 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.

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.

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 (ICLC 7) being held next year.

It was a “fruitful” workshop with progress made for the future workings of the network.

Throughout the two days, 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, said: “The work of Learning Limerick has become a real showcase of what’s possible when a whole city commits to learning. The progress on the Charter for the European and North American Network is also great to see and very timely.

“We look forward to the Mayors of our respective cities signing this Charter at the UNESCO Conference next June 2027 - a symbolic and decisive step in affirming our shared commitment to lifelong learning.”

Yvonne Lane said: “The success of Learning Limerick is down to partnership. I was honoured at this international forum to share the story of some of our initiatives that are about creating connections between learning providers, business and community groups and volunteers; and showing that learning is for everyone.

“This included highlighting the recent launch of our Learning Limerick Strategic Plan, our annual Lifelong Learning Festival, the Learning Ambassadors initiative and Networking Meetings.

“I also look forward to bringing back new ideas that can benefit our city and region.”