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UNESCO Prize for ICT in education steers digital learning for greening education
This year’s ceremony also marks the 15th edition of the Prize, celebrating nearly 20 years since its establishment in 2005. For this edition, the Prize received 71 nominated projects from 36 UNESCO Member States and 3 non-governmental organizations officially affiliated with UNESCO.
Spearheading the synergy between the digital transformation and greening transition of education
The ceremony opened with remarks from Ms Stefania Giannini, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Education, who highlighted the critical role of education in bridging the digital and green transitions.
We need a generation of green-digital citizens who have the knowledge, skills, attitudes and behaviours to address the two greatest challenges of the 21st century: balancing our relationships with the environment and balancing our relationships with technology.
Her remarks emphasized that education has the power to unite two of the most pressing transitions of our time – the shift towards sustainability and the rapid advancement of digital technologies.
Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the UNESCO-Bahrain partnership in ICT for education
H.E. Mr Mohammed Bin Mubarak Juma, Minister of Education for the Kingdom of Bahrain, expressed deep appreciation for the partnership with UNESCO in promoting innovative educational practices and integrating digital tools to enhance environmental awareness. He remarked, “The Ministry of Education and the Kingdom of Bahrain takes pride in the constructive and sustainable partnership it has with UNESCO,” highlighting their shared commitment to developing education systems and spreading green education. “We strive to make this green-oriented culture a priority for educational institutions,” he added, underscoring Bahrain's dedication to fostering a generation well-aware of environmental challenges.
GOGO Teachers’ Association: pioneering data-driven carbon literacy
The first award went to the GOGO Teachers’ Association from the Republic of Korea for their project “Data-Driven Carbon Literacy,” developed in collaboration with ENOMAD. The project empowers students to monitor and analyze energy consumption. The initiative promotes sustainable behaviour through practical activities like interactive games and field trips, aiming to foster carbon-conscious citizens.
Mr Werner Westmann, Chair of the Jury, praised the project for enabling students to connect their personal actions with global sustainability goals. Representing the association, Mr Minchul Shin expressed gratitude for the recognition and explained that the project began as a grassroots effort during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Our goal wasn’t to advocate for extreme energy reductions, but to show how mindful energy use can lead to sustainable change”, Mr Shin said. “Small efforts, when connected, can create a new paradigm in environmental education”.
The project has already made a tangible impact, reaching over 200 students and 700 families across four regions in the Republic of Korea. Through collaboration with local schools and eco-friendly businesses, students are learning to reduce their carbon footprints both at home and in their communities. This hands-on approach has helped raise awareness and encourage sustainable habits among students and their families, contributing to a wider cultural shift towards environmental responsibility.
EducoNetImpact: Advocating for digital sobriety
The second laureate, the EducoNetImpact initiative from Belgium, focuses on “digital sobriety,” promoting the responsible and eco-conscious use of technology. Led by Ms Sarah Descamps, the project provides interactive tools and teaching materials that educate students and teachers on reducing their digital footprint.
Mr Westmann commended EducoNetImpact for its innovative approach to minimizing the environmental impact of digital technologies. Ms Descamps shared her excitement about the award, stating: “This recognition encourages us to continue integrating digital sobriety into education. It highlights the importance of educating younger generations to use digital technology thoughtfully and responsibly”.
EducoNetImpact’s resources are already making an impact, with around 1,000 teachers using its materials to promote sustainable digital practices. The project is also committed to reducing the carbon footprint of its own platform, having received an eco-design audit that recognized its dedication to minimizing environmental impact.
Looking ahead: encouraging a proactive commitment to sustainable development
The laureates showcase the potential of digital innovation to support the green transition and foster sustainable development. The awarded projects demonstrate how digital learning can encourage a proactive commitment to sustainability among learners as they engage with technology.
Both laureates plan to use the recognition and resources from the Prize to expand their initiatives. The GOGO Teachers’ Association aims to develop new digital environmental education projects, potentially establishing a nonprofit foundation, while EducoNetImpact intends to enhance its platform with new learning materials, expand its reach to older students, and translate resources into more languages to promote responsible digital use globally.
Reflecting on the significance of the prize, H.E. Mr Mohammed Bin Mubarak Juma reaffirmed Bahrain's commitment to its partnership with UNESCO: “This award has proven its high value and the noble educational message it carries, highlighting current issues and fostering education as a tool to change our world and the lives of our peoples for a bright tomorrow for future generations.”
Established in 2005 and supported by the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Prize rewards every year individuals and organizations that enhance teaching, learning and overall education performance. It recognizes innovative approaches in leveraging new technologies to expand educational and lifelong learning opportunities for all. Each prizewinner receives 25,000 US$, a medal and a diploma during a ceremony at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris.
