UNESCO hosts networking event for education NGOs

UNESCO's Regional Office for Eastern Africa recently played host to a pivotal networking event titled 'Uniting for Impact' on May 8, 2024, in Nairobi. The gathering aimed to foster deeper collaboration between UNESCO and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), refining strategies to collectively address the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

Discussions at the event centered around enhancing collaborative engagements, identifying new avenues for joint initiatives, and delving into the statutory framework governing interactions between UNESCO and partnering NGOs. Representatives from more than 40 NGOs spanning the globe participated in the event, seeking pathways to establish official partnerships with UNESCO.

In his opening remarks, Lamine Sow, Head of Education for the UNESCO Regional Office for Eastern Africa, underscored the significance of the initiative, stating, "This dialogue serves as a cornerstone for forging stronger alliances that drive us toward our shared aspirations for sustainable development." Emphasizing the importance of reinforcing existing partnerships while paving the way for new collaborative opportunities, Sow highlighted the potential to amplify collective impact.

The strategic dialogue embodied in the event signifies more than just a meeting; it serves as a launchpad for innovative initiatives and enduring partnerships that will shape efforts to achieve the SDGs. Through collaborative action, UNESCO, alongside NGOs, is charting a course towards a future where collective efforts create lasting change.