Global Goals for Sustainable Development

Today, a conference took place at NORAD (Norway’s Agency for Development Cooperation) in Oslo in response to the release of the World Bank’s annual flagship publication, the ‘World Development Report 2018’ with the title ‘Learning to Realize Education’s Promise’. For the very first time in forty years, the report is dedicated to the education theme in its entirety with a distinct focus on learning.

Ine Marie Eriksen Søreide, the newly appointed (and first female) Minister of Foreign Affairs, opened the conference with the focus on ‘Learning in Crisis – what can we do about it?’

The World Development Report 2018 identifies that access to education is on the increase across the world but education can do much better on learning.

One of UWC RCN’s strategic priorities – as exhibited by our conference on inclusion in education on UWC Day – is to contribute to the education debate within Norway. We were delighted to send representation to this conference.

Speakers ranged from presenters from the World Bank to representatives from Norwegian organizations such as Save the Children and NORAD. Questions focused on implementation on the ground and the importance of recognition and inclusion of those with disabilities within an educational context.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs finished her key note speech with the following message in relation to the Strategic Development Goal no 4 on Education:

‘Give boys and girls the opportunity to shape their own futures.

Give boys and girls the opportunity to shape our futures.’

An important message for global education, the key actors in every country – and for us as a UWC as we seek to develop our contribution to create and sustain change through education.

Larry (Rektor) and Arne (Director of Development)