Welcome to the May 2026 edition of the 91亚色 UNESCO Chair Newsletter.

As global discussions on the future of education beyond 2030 evolve — on social media under #EducationBeyond2030 — and will soon pick up speed, the month of May offers a good moment to reflect on the role of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) at the core of institutional and societal transformation efforts. With growing pressures across environmental, social, and political systems, ESD remains central to building more just and sustainable futures.

This month, we share selected updates, events, and opportunities, highlighting current work in (higher) education, policy engagement, and international collaboration. Thank you for staying connected and for advancing this work on promoting and implementing ESD.

Charles Hopkins and Katrin Kohl
UNESCO Chair in Reorienting Education towards Sustainability, 91亚色

Nominate someone by 6 May 2026

As the 2030 Agenda enters its final phase, UNESCO has launched a global foresight exercise to explore the trends, risks, and emerging priorities that will shape education, including ESD beyond 2030. Bringing together experts, youth, and stakeholders across sectors, the process will help inform the 2027 Global Education Meeting and contribute to defining the next global education agenda. This is an opportunity to reflect on how education systems can respond sustainability challenges, such as climate change, AI, inequality, conflict, and shifting labour markets.

Participate in the consultation by 12 May 2026

Have your voice heard for Canada’s Federal Sustainable Development Strategy 2026-2029 (FSDS). For the new FSDS 2026-2029, Canada seeks input from educators, researchers, institutions, youth, Indigenous partners, and other stakeholders. Feedback from diverse communities will help shape future federal policies and ensure the FSDS reflects diverse perspectives and evidence-based approaches to building a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient Canada. Participate on or before 12 May 2026.

Extended deadline 31 May 2026

The International Association of Universities (IAU) has launched the . Every four years, the survey examines progress and challenges of institutions in their pursuit of sustainable development, including achieving the SDGs. By capturing global trends, regional perspectives, and innovative practices, the findings provide a crucial evidence base for institutional strategies and policy development for the remaining years of the SDGs. Learn more about how your institution can take part (one?response?per institution) by 31 May 2026.

Extended deadline 30 May 2026

Deadline extended until 30 May 2026! NORRAG, the IAU, and the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) invite contributions to a new policy brief series exploring how higher education can accelerate systemic sustainability transformation. The series examines governance, leadership, financing, curriculum reform, and policy frameworks shaping the future of higher education.

20 September 2026

UNESCO and the SDG 4 High-Level Steering Committee have launched a global youth and student consultation to help shape the future education agenda beyond 2030. Young people aged 11–30 are invited to share their perspectives on the future of learning, education priorities, and societal change through a global survey open until 20 September 2026.

The process places youth voices at the centre of rethinking education systems and strengthening inclusive, participatory approaches to Education for Sustainable Development and global education policy.

Hosted by Democritus University of Thrace in collaboration with 91亚色, this brings together researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to explore crisis governance, resilience planning, climate and technological risks, cybersecurity, and innovation in higher education. A unique opportunity for those working at the intersection of risk, resilience, and education to contribute and connect.

6-9 May 2026 all day (hybrid)

The Foundation for Environmental Education Global Action Days 2026 continue until 6 May 2026, inviting schools, universities, and communities around the world to take part in practical activities that connect sustainability learning with action. A strong reminder that ESD grows through participation, collaboration, and local engagement.

An upcoming online conversation on 7 May 2026 at 2pm ET will explore what the next century could look like if climate restoration becomes a shared global priority. The webinar invites participants to engage with long-term thinking on ecological renewal, intergenerational responsibility, and pathways for sustainability action. This is a great opportunity to connect climate literacy and systems thinking with ESD in light of current challenges of North America's community colleges.

7 May 2026 2pm ET

How can higher education partnerships between the Global North and South move beyond good intentions to create meaningful and lasting impact? On 7 May 2026 at 5pm CET / 11am ET, this upcoming University World News webinar brings together experts for a timely conversation for institutions working to strengthen global collaboration in support of sustainable development.

7 May 2026 5pm CET / 11am ET (online)

12 May 2026 2-5pm CET (in person)

13 May 2026 10am-1pm (in person)

UNESCO IESALC () will launch its new Higher Education Global Trends Report on Inclusion and Equity in an Internationally Mobile Landscape at UNESCO Headquarters on 12-13 May 2026 in Paris, France. The report examines how global student mobility is reshaping questions of access, equity, and inclusion across higher education systems, offering insights for institutions and policymakers working to strengthen internationalization in more just and inclusive ways.

As global discussions begin to look beyond the 2030 Agenda, this upcoming on 13 May 2026 at 3pm CET / 9am ET creates space to critically examine the role of higher education in shaping future global development frameworks. The conversation will explore how universities can contribute not only to implementing sustainable development priorities, but also to rethinking the agendas, partnerships, and knowledge systems that will shape what comes next.

13 May 2026 3pm CET / 9am ET (online)

What should education look like when artificial intelligence can generate answers in seconds? This upcoming book launch explores how AI is reshaping teaching, learning, and the role of human judgment in education. Join the and be part of a conversation on new frameworks for learning that centre responsibility, critical thinking, and human connection in the AI era, resonating deeply with the objectives of ESD.

28 May 2026 1pm ET (hybrid)

The Global Sustainable Development 2026 will take place from 22–25 June 2026 in Jakarta, Indonesia. The congress brings together leaders from higher education, government, business, and civil society to advance collaboration and action on the SDGs and will be the moment of the first reveal of the new Times Higher Education .

Within this context, Charles Hopkins and Katrin Kohl will again moderate the track on Education, Gender, and Inequality, contributing to discussions on the role of education in addressing systemic challenges and advancing more inclusive and sustainable futures.

22-25 June 2026 all day (in person)

The Teacher Education for Equity and Sustainability Network (TEESNet) has announced its 15th conference, taking place on 1 December 2026 at Liverpool Hope University in Liverpool, United Kingdom. The conference will bring together educators, researchers, and practitioners to exchange ideas on equity, sustainability, and teacher education. Further details, including the call for contributions, will be shared soon.

10 May 2026

The United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS) invites undergraduate students worldwide to apply for the  (GYM) 2026, a free online certificate programme focused on biodiversity, climate change, circular economy, and youth engagement in global decision-making as key areas of ESD. Applications are open until 10 May 2026 for students interested in strengthening sustainability leadership and global policy engagement.

14 May 2026

for the ESD Okayama Award 2026, recognizing outstanding ESD initiatives from around the world. Open to organizations with at least three years of active ESD work, the award highlights innovative, community-based projects that support sustainability learning and local action. One or two projects will receive US$3,000, with winners invited to the award ceremony in Okayama, Japan on 14 November 2026. The application deadline is 14 May 2026.

15 May 2026

Applications are now open for the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent, a fully funded human rights training opportunity in Geneva, Switzerland. The programme strengthens knowledge of international human rights mechanisms and advocacy, supporting key dimensions of ESD, including equity, inclusion, and social justice. The application deadline is 15 May 2026.

Apply by 17 May 2026

Applications are now open for the 2026 UN SDG Action Awards, recognizing individuals and initiatives driving creative, community-based solutions for sustainable development. Open until 17 May 2026, the awards highlight action across justice, resilience, and innovation, offering a global platform for changemakers whose work is advancing the SDGs through tangible impact and collective engagement.

UNESCO IESALC’s Higher Education Policy Observatory (HEPO) is a crucial resource for higher education policymakers, researchers, and institutional leaders. Covering nearly 150 national systems, the platform offers comparative policy and statistical data on governance, access, quality assurance, funding, mobility, and equity.

The  continues to build global momentum for climate-ready education systems through a whole-system approach grounded in Education for Sustainable Development. Hosted by UNESCO, the partnership supports action across four interconnected areas: greening schools, curriculum, teacher training, and communities. With 98 countries and more than 2,000 organizations now engaged, the platform offers practical tools, global guidance, and opportunities for collaboration to strengthen sustainability across education systems.

Welcome to the April 2026 edition of the 91亚色 UNESCO Chair Newsletter.

April is often framed as a moment to raise awareness for the planet with Earth Day being celebrated on 22 April. This year, the context is more complex than ever. Environmental challenges are increasingly shaped by the ecological footprint of both war and rapid technological development, including artificial intelligence. Awareness alone is no longer enough. The question is how education translates concern into everyday practice, and how institutions move from isolated initiatives to more coherent approaches. Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) continues to play an enabling role across agendas, but its value depends on how it is taken up in concrete ways across teaching, research, and institutional practice.

There is positive action happening for ESD, especially in advancing education transformation and whole-institution approaches, with a stronger focus on collaboration, innovation, and practical action. In this issue, we share selected events, opportunities, and resources for April and beyond. Please feel free to share this newsletter with colleagues and networks.

Charles Hopkins and Katrin Kohl
UNESCO Chair in Reorienting Education towards Sustainability, 91亚色

On 19 March 2026, 91亚色's UNESCO Chair marked the last step of a significant recognition for Charles Hopkins: He was invested as a Member of the Order of Canada in Ottawa with the Governor General of Canada presiding over the ceremony.

At a time that is marked by escalating global conflict and growing pressure on multilateral cooperation with sustainability and education often pushed to the margins, this distinction recognizes decades of leadership in advancing ESD. Warm congratulations!

The 2025 Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) Annual Report highlights Charles Hopkins as the 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, recognizing his decades-long leadership in advancing ESD globally.

Throughout the month of April, 91亚色 will highlight how the community is engaging with complex sustainability challenges across teaching, research, and campus life. Earth Month, and especially Earth Day, on 22 April offer opportunities to reflect on these efforts. This includes hands-on initiatives, such as tree planting and campus clean-ups, as well as learning opportunities like the Microlecture Series in Sustainable Living and student-led projects linked to the SDGs.

The 91亚色 community has received new Indigenous-led land acknowledgements, gifted by the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. The acknowledgements are supported by guidance and resources to encourage meaningful and consistent use across the community, recognizing them as living practices grounded in respect, relationship-building, and reconciliation.

The last conversation of the series of post-2030 dialogues hosted by the Bridge 47 Community will take place on 9 April 2026 at 2pm CET / 8am ET. Conversations aim to inspire collective reflection on the role of education beyond 2030. This new SDG 4.7 platform provides a shared space for international, cross-sectoral dialogue on the future of SDG 4.7, fostering inclusive discussion and joint meaning-making.

Applications are still open for the International Green Gown Awards 2026, a major global recognition of sustainability leadership in higher education. The awards honour innovative initiatives that demonstrate how universities and colleges are advancing sustainable development through teaching, research, operations, and community engagement. Institutions across the globe can apply on or before 10 April 2026.

The Academic Network on Global Education and Learning (ANGEL) is hosting a session on partnerships in global education and learning on 15 April 2026, 1–2:30pm CET/8-9:30am ET. The event brings together researchers, institutions, and practitioners to explore how partnerships can support knowledge exchange, joint research, and capacity building, strengthening connections between academia, policy, and practice for global education.

The Dr. Wu Lien-Teh Society invites members and friends to the 5^th Dr Wu Lien-Teh Award for Leadership in Public Health 2026 and Annual Public Lecture, recognizing Tan Sri Dzulkifli Abdul Razak as this year’s award recipient. Congratulations!

The event will take place on 18 April 2026 at 2-5pm MYT at the Penang Institute in George Town (Malaysia). The lecture will focus on steps towards sustainable public healthcare in the context of the SDGs.

Celebrate Earth Day with UNESCO! Join the upcoming webinar on 22 April 2026 at 2-3pm CET / 8-9am ET that will explore pathways to advance greening education across systems and institutions. Engage with global perspectives, practical examples, and emerging tools supporting implementation and policy alignment.

Celebrating Earth Day, the Global Action Days 2026, coordinated by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), will take place from 22 April to 6 May 2026. The initiative invites schools, universities, and communities worldwide to engage in hands-on activities that support sustainability learning and collective action.

On 6-9 May 2026, the International Hybrid Conference on Crisis and Disaster Governance, Planning and Resilience (ICPCDGR 2026) will bring together academics, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners in Kavala (Greece) to explore approaches to risk, resilience, and security in the context of international education. Organized by Democritus University of Thrace in collaboration with 91亚色, the conference focuses on crisis governance, resilience planning, civil protection, climate and technological risks, cybersecurity, and innovation in higher education. A call for abstracts is currently open until 28 April 2026.

The Global Sustainable Development Congress 2026 will take place from 22–25 June 2026 in Jakarta (Indonesia). The congress brings together leaders from higher education, government, business, and civil society to advance collaboration and action on the SGs and will be the moment of the first reveal of the new Times Higher Education .

Within this context, Charles Hopkins and Katrin Kohl will again moderate the track on Education, Gender, and Inequality, contributing to discussions on the role of education in addressing systemic challenges and advancing more inclusive and sustainable futures.

Mark your calendars for the 17^th General Conference of the International Association of Universities (IAU), taking place 3–6 November 2026 in Perth (Western Australia). The conference will feature a dynamic program exploring emerging trends in higher education.

The (IAU) has launched the . Every four years, the survey examines progress and challenges of institutions in their pursuit of sustainable development including achieving the SDGs. By capturing global trends, regional perspectives, and innovative practices, the findings provide a crucial evidence base for institutional strategies and policy development for the remaining years of the SDGs. Learn more about how your institution can take part (one response per institution) by 30 April 2026.

The was launched today at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, marking the first in the Countdown to 2030 series. The report highlights a persistent gap between ambition and progress. While enrolment has increased significantly over the past decades, 273 million children and youth remain out of school, with universal secondary completion still far beyond current timelines. The findings point to the need for context-specific approaches and nationally defined targets to advance progress on SDG 4.

Under the title Transforming higher education: global collaboration on visioning and action, UNESCO has launched a , setting out guiding principles and lines of action to support more inclusive, sustainable, and future-oriented systems. Developed through a broad international consultation process, the Roadmap presents seven guiding principles and lines of transformation, offering a shared orientation for advancing a new social contract for higher education.

Developed jointly by UNESCO and ICESCO within the Greening Education Partnership, a new global dashboard has been launched to support the monitoring and advancement of greening education efforts worldwide. The dashboard offers a practical entry point to explore how education systems are integrating sustainability across policy, teaching and learning, school environments, and community engagement.

The Ban Ki-moon Foundation’s newest publication is out. Hosted in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea and Salzburg Global, the International Forum on Education for the Post-2030 Agenda in Salzburg (Austria) brought together more than 100 participants to explore a long-term vision for Global Citizenship Education (GCED) in the post-2030 Agenda. They emphasized that GCED is a practical and scalable framework for addressing global challenges, strengthening inclusion, and empowering learners and educators as active agents of change.

The Education and Academia Stakeholder Group (EASG) has released the Executive Summary of its 2026 High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) Sectoral Paper. 91亚色's UNESCO Chair team contributed to the drafting of the paper. The summary calls for increased public investment, stronger support for educators, and renewed focus on inclusive learning, positioning education, including ESD, as a key enabler across the SDGs.

The United Nations Youth Office has introduced Core Principles for Meaningful Youth Participation, providing guidance on how to strengthen effective engagement of young people in decision-making processes. The framework emphasizes moving beyond symbolic participation towards genuine partnerships.

The Our Shared World Report: Transformative Learning for a Sustainable Future brings together research and practice to explore how education can better respond to current social and environmental challenges. Drawing on international policy and case studies, the report highlights the role of transformative learning in advancing SDG 4.7 and calls for education systems that place sustainability, justice, and critical engagement at the centre of learning.

A new opportunity linked to ESD is a free online course by UNITAR and UNDESA on . Systems thinking and foresight are core ESD competencies. They support more integrated, forward-looking decision-making across sectors. In a context of slow progress and growing complexity, strengthening these capacities remains essential for advancing the 2030 Agenda.

A recent podcast episode on Radio UZPR features the project Transforming Futures: Enhancing Practice for ESD for 2030 through Action Research. The conversation explores how action research can support educators in strengthening ESD and advance more context-responsive approaches.

Watch the recording of a conversation with Dr. Lokman Karadag and the UNESCO Chair team as we discussed how artificial intelligence is reshaping global education efforts. How can ESD respond to this emerging challenge? We explored opportunities, risks, and responsibilities as education systems begin to respond to rapid technological change the future of learning across regions.

Welcome to the March 2026 edition of the 91亚色 UNESCO Chair Newsletter.

March is a month of reflection and action. International Women’s Day highlights the continued importance of advancing gender equality and recognizing the leadership of women and girls in sustainable development. SDG Action & Awareness Week calls for renewed efforts to accelerate progress across the (SDGs). The month also includes World Water Day, which focuses global attention on the value of freshwater and the urgent need for sustainable water management. Communication and public awareness about urgent sustainability challenges, such as gender, water, or other themes in the the SDGs, are core elements of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), as ESD is set to inform, engage, and empower people to understand complex issues and take responsible action.

Momentum around ESD, including transforming education efforts and whole-institution approaches, continues to grow, emphasizing the need for more collaboration, innovation, and practical solutions to advance sustainability.

In this issue, we share selected events, opportunities, and resources for March and beyond. Please feel free to share this newsletter with colleagues and networks.

Charles Hopkins and Katrin Kohl
UNESCO Chair in Reorienting Education towards Sustainability, 91亚色

Join the conversation for SDG Action & Awareness Week 2026, hosted by the University Global Coalition in partnership with UN Academic Impact from 2-6 March 2026. This global initiative invites universities and partners to raise awareness of the SDGs through events, collaborations, and shared learning across campuses and communities worldwide.

Canada will once more extend the SDG Action & Awareness Week into an entire ! March 2026 is a national collaborative initiative bringing universities and colleges together throughout March to advance the SDGs. Campuses will host workshops, panels, and interactive activities that raise awareness, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and inspire action among students, educators, and communities across the country.

The Bridge 47 Community has launched a series of conversations - next dates: 3 March and 9 April 2026 at 2pm CET / 8am ET - to support collective reflection on the role of education beyond 2030. This new SDG 4.7 platform provides a shared space for international, cross-sectoral dialogue on the future of SDG 4.7, fostering inclusive discussion and joint meaning-making.

On 10 March 2026 at 1.30pm CET / 8:30am ET, this joint UNESCO ESD-Net and Greening Education Partnership  seeks to explore practical approaches to advancing ESD and greening higher education. Furthermore, the webinar fosters collaboration within the ESD-Net and GEP communities, strengthening synergies and expanding engagement around shared sustainability priorities. 

The world faces mounting challenges to sustainable development, even as the 17 SDGs remain a shared global framework. On 10 March 2026 at 3pm CET / 9am ET, join the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) for a discussion on accelerating the SDGs through regional cooperation, financial reform, and improved planning.

Postsecondary institutions play a vital role in advancing the SDGs through their missions of teaching, research, and in meaningful community engagement. While many universities and colleges already integrate the SDGs into their strategies, operations, and pedagogical practices, progress remains uneven across the country. On 18 March 2026 at 1:30pm ET, this SDG Connections webinar offers a national space to reflect together on best approaches and to strengthen collaboration. 91亚色's UNESCO Co Chair Katrin Kohl is invited to offer an overview of ESD in Canada.

The , observed annually on 19 March, highlights the role of digital technologies in expanding access to quality education and supporting lifelong learning for all.

The 2026 theme, Building digital futures for public education, focuses on developing trusted public digital platforms and resources that support learners, teachers, and education systems worldwide. UNESCO invites organizations and individuals to feature and celebrate digital learning platforms and other digital commons that support, extend and enrich public education.

Join this livestream conversation on 24 March 2026 at 10am ET / 3pm CET. Hosted by our colleague Dr. Lokman Karadag, we will jointly explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping global education efforts and discuss the implications for sustainable development. How can ESD respond to this new emerging challenge? We will consider opportunities, risks, and responsibilities as education systems respond to rapid technological change, with reflections on human agency and the future of learning across regions.

On 25 March 2026, UNESCO will launch the new 2026 Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report on access and equity in education, addressing barriers that prevent many learners from fully participating in quality education worldwide. The report examines disparities related to poverty, gender, disability, displacement, and location, and highlights policy pathways to advance more inclusive education systems. This forthcoming report will provide important evidence and guidance for governments, institutions, and educators working to achieve equitable education for all in line with SDG 4.

Join the inaugural SDG Tales: Local Stories, Global Impact virtual event on 26 March at 1pm ET, an online gathering that will celebrate community leaders driving sustainable change across Canada. You will be able to listen to first-hand stories from people advancing the SDGs in diverse local contexts, showing how community initiatives can contribute to meaningful global progress. Participants will have the opportunity to connect with others who share a commitment to more sustainable and just futures, while gaining new inspiration for their own context.

The first quarterly Working Group meeting of the Greening Education Partnership (GEP) will take place on 31 March 2026 at 8am ET / 2pm CET. GEP members will share updates on initiatives to advance climate and sustainability education, including greening schools, curriculum development, teacher training, and community engagement. This session offers an opportunity to learn about current progress, exchange experiences, and strengthen collaboration across the partnership.

More than a decade after their adoption, progress on the SDGs remains seriously off track. At the same time, the United Nations is navigating significant political and financial pressures, even as its role in global cooperation remains essential. On 1 April 2026 at 3pm CET / 9am ET, join the SDSN for a high-level dialogue on post-2030 pathways, mid-century goals, and practical strategies for advancing sustainable development in a changing global context.

On 21-24 May 2026, the 13^th International Youth Conference (IYC13) will bring together young leaders, diplomats, and changemakers from more than 100 countries in Los Angeles (CA, USA) to explore how youth can help shape the future of global diplomacy, peacebuilding, and international cooperation. Participants (in-person and online) will engage in high-level panels, interactive workshops, and skill-building sessions focused on negotiation, conflict resolution, and advocacy.

The AASHE Conference & Expo 2026 will take place 4-6 October 2026, in Baltimore (Maryland, USA), bringing together sustainability leaders, educators, researchers, and practitioners from across higher education. The event serves as a major platform for sharing innovative practices, building partnerships, and advancing whole-institution approaches to sustainability on campus and beyond. The call for proposals is open now until 10 April 2026.

UNESCO has invited students and young people aged 18–35 to participate in the UNESCO Global Youth Survey on Mental Health in Times of Crisis. The survey will inform the first UNESCO Global Youth Outlook, providing insights into youth well-being, resilience, and the impacts of current global challenges. Responses from diverse regions are essential. The survey is available in multiple languages and remains open until 8 March 2026.

The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) invites contributions to a new compendium showcasing practical, evidence-based examples of ESD across the region. Submissions should demonstrate how ESD and the four priority strands of the UNECE ESD Strategy (quality education, whole-institution approaches, digital education, entrepreneurship) support progress on the SDGs under review in 2026 (SDG 6, 7, 9, 11, 17). Member States, institutions, organizations, youth groups, educators, and other stakeholders are encouraged to at any level. Submissions are accepted until end of 28 March 2026.

The (IAU) has launched the . Every four years, the survey examines progress and challenges across teaching, research, governance, and community engagement, and alignment with the SDGs.

By capturing global trends, regional perspectives, and innovative practices, the findings will provide a crucial evidence base for institutional strategies and policy development for the remaining years of the SDGs. Learn more about how your institution can take part (one response per institution) by 30 April 2026.

Have your voice heard for Canada’s Federal Sustainable Development Strategy 2026-2029 (FSDS). For the new FSDS 2026-2029, Canada seeks input from educators, researchers, institutions, youth, Indigenous partners, and other stakeholders on priorities, actions, and indicators that can strengthen sustainable development across the country. Feedback from diverse communities will help shape future federal policies and ensure the FSDS reflects diverse perspectives and evidence-based approaches to building a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient Canada. Participate on or before 12 May 2026.

A new self-paced online course from the Employment and Social Development Canada’s SDG Unit offers an accessible introduction to the 2030 Agenda with the 17 SDGs. While the course was originally designed for Canadian federal public servants, its content reflects key principles and learnings that are relevant to everyone. The course explores key global challenges, Canada’s commitment to the Agenda, and practical ways to integrate the SDGs into policies, programmes, and decision-making.

Applications are open for the International Green Gown Awards 2026, a major global recognition of sustainability leadership in higher education. The awards honour innovative initiatives that demonstrate how universities and colleges are advancing sustainable development through teaching, research, operations, and community engagement. Open to institutions across the globe for applications on or before 10 April 2026, the programme highlights impactful practices and fosters international exchange on sustainability in tertiary education.

Explore practical tools for integrating the SDGs into teaching and learning through an innovative capacity-building platform developed by the Regional Centre of Expertise on ESD in Crete, Greece (). Designed for educators across disciplines, the platform offers ready-to-use resources, examples, and guidance to support curriculum development, innovative pedagogy, and whole-institution engagement with sustainability, in particular the SDGs.

There is a new podcast by the European University Association (EUA). The EUA launched Learning to Teach, a new that will explore how universities support academic staff in developing effective teaching practices. Through conversations with educators and experts across Europe, the series shares insights on professional development, innovative pedagogy, and institutional approaches that strengthen teaching and learning in higher education.

A new season of Awake at Night, the UN podcast, is now available. In this powerful series, humanitarian workers from around the world share personal, often untold stories from the front lines of displacement crises. Speaking in their own voices, they reflect on the moments that stay with them long after the cameras are gone and the headlines fade. The podcast offers a rare glimpse into the human side of humanitarian action.

Now available in two special issues from SAGE Journal of Education for Sustainable Development (JESD), a wide range of different perspectives highlight current scholarship on transforming education and policy developments in ESD. Together, these two special issues offer valuable insights into the current state of research with recommendations for the remaining years of the SDGs and a post-2030 agenda for researchers, educators, and policymakers.

Welcome to the February 2026 edition of the 91亚色 UNESCO Chair Newsletter!

As we look towards a new year, we do so with a strong sense of momentum and purpose. One of the absolute highlights on the very last day of 2025 was the appointment of our Chairholder Charles Hopkins as a Member of the Order of Canada, a meaningful recognition not only of his lifelong commitment, but also of the growing importance of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) within Canada and globally.

While the year ahead will - no doubt - continue to bring change and challenge, we are encouraged by the many positive developments we are seeing across policy, research, and practice. From renewed global attention to ESD in 2026, to deeper collaboration across higher education and the UN system, there is energy for true transformation. We enter 2026 grateful for the community we work with and hopeful about what lies ahead.

This first newsletter of the year will offer a line-up of ESD-related webinars, publications and conferences in February and beyond. Please feel free to share this newsletter or encourage colleagues to for future editions.

Charles Hopkins and Katrin Kohl
UNESCO Chair in Reorienting Education towards Sustainability, 91亚色

91亚色's UNESCO Chairholder Charles Hopkins has been appointed a Member of the Order of Canada, one of the country’s most distinguished civilian honours. This appointment recognizes a lifetime of leadership, national and international impact, and service that has advanced the public good. Charles has played a formative role in shaping how sustainability is understood, embedded, and advanced in and through education, training and public awareness. Over several decades, his work has influenced international policy frameworks, supported institutional transformation in education, and strengthened learning communities committed to social, environmental, and intergenerational responsibility. His leadership has helped position ESD not as an add-on, but as a core principle of quality education in Canada and globally.

Charles’ appointment reflects both his personal commitment and the growing recognition of ESD as a vital foundation for navigating complex global challenges.

For all of you that are interested in advancing ESD as a policy concept within the international dialogue, it is important to know that the has once more reaffirmed ESD "...as a vital means of implementation for sustainable development (...) and as an integral element of the Sustainable Development Goal on quality education and a key enabler of all the other Goals, and welcomes the increased international recognition of education for sustainable development in quality education and lifelong learning" on 15 December 2025.

Our colleagues from the UNESCO Chair at Universidad de San Andrés (Argentina) have a : A 100 % online graduate Specialization in Education for Sustainability which will start in February 2026. The programme is offered in Spanish and is designed for participants from diverse professional, geographic and cultural backgrounds. Interested candidates are welcome to join an online information session on 3 February 2026 at 6pm ET.

On International Education Day 2026, UNESCO and the UN Youth Office the 2026 Youth Report: Lead with youth as part of the Global Education Monitoring Report series. This first-of-its-kind global assessment examines how young people and student organizations participate in education decision-making worldwide, offering data and insights into mechanisms that support meaningful youth engagement. The report underscores the importance of shaping education policies with youth as key partners.

On International Education Day 2026, the Ban Ki-moon Foundation launched a new on Global Citizenship Education (GCED) titled The Making of a Global Citizen. The story collection brings together personal reflections from global leaders, changemakers, and youth on the experiences that shaped their understanding of global citizenship, with a strong focus on SDG 4: Quality Education. Contributors include members of the BKMF Board alongside youth and changemakers from diverse backgrounds.

The Ages of Globalization – Higher Education programme offers a free, interdisciplinary designed for university students, educators, and lifelong learners who want to deepen their understanding of global systems and sustainable development. The curriculum explores historical and contemporary forces shaping globalization, connecting economic, social, environmental, and governance dimensions to the SDGs. Learners can access self-paced modules and earn a certificate upon completion.

In the context of growing global uncertainty and ongoing debates on the future of the SDGs, the Bridge 47 Community has launched a series of conversations to support collective reflection on the role of education beyond 2030. The new SDG 4.7 platform provides a shared space for international, cross-sectoral dialogue on the future of SDG 4.7, fostering inclusive discussion and joint meaning-making.

Webinar on 3 March 2026, 2pm CET / 8am ET

Webinar on 9 April 2026, 2pm CET / 8am ET

The world faces mounting challenges to sustainable development, even as the 17 SDGs remain a shared global framework. On 10 March 2026 at 3pm CET / 9am ET, join the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) for a discussion on accelerating the SDGs through regional cooperation, financial reform, and improved planning.

More than a decade after their adoption, progress on the SDGs remains seriously off track. At the same time, the United Nations is navigating significant political and financial pressures, even as its role in global cooperation remains essential. On 1 April 2026 at 3 pm CET / 9am ET, join the SDSN for a high-level dialogue on post-2030 pathways, mid-century goals, and practical strategies for advancing sustainable development in a changing global context.

Join the SDG Conference 2026 under the title Education Unscripted - The Quest for Truth, Collaborative Transformation & Solidarity in Oslo (Norway) on 2-3 February 2026. Hosted by OsloMet and the National Committee for Sustainability in Higher Education in Norway, the event explores how education and lifelong learning can help meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. The first day will be livestreamed from Oslo City Hall, followed by open discussions and activities at Deichman Bj?rvika.

UNESCO holds over 400 partnerships with NGOs from across the globe. These official relations are guided by UNESCO’s frameworks for consultation, cooperation and joint action across UNESCO’s fields of competence. The 18th International Forum of NGOs in official partnership with UNESCO will be held virtually on 11-12 February 2026 and is open to all interested stakeholders. is open now!

Save the date for SDG Action & Awareness Week 2026, hosted by the University Global Coalition in partnership with UN Academic Impact from 2-6 March 2026. This global initiative invites universities and partners to raise awareness of the SDGs through events, collaborations, and shared learning across campuses and communities worldwide.

Canada will once more adapt the SDG Action & Awareness Week into an entire . Stay tuned!

The Global Engagement and Empowerment Forum on Sustainable Development (GEEF) 2026 will take place at Yonsei University (Sinchon Campus, Seoul, Korea) on 12–13 March 2026. Under the theme Time for Action: Emerging Technology and Global Solidarity, the will convene participants for open discussions on sustainability, innovation, and collective approaches to global challenges. The event is open to a broad audience interested in advancing sustainable development through dialogue and collaboration.

Save the date for Together | Ensemble 2026, Canada’s national conference on the SDGs, taking place on 19-20 May 2026 at the University of Calgary (Alberta, Canada). The event will bring together Indigenous leaders, youth, academics, government, business, and community partners to explore Mobilizing Local Action for Global Impact and accelerate progress on the SDGs across sectors and communities. Proposal submission is still open until 16 February 2026.

Registration is now open for the Global Sustainable Development Congress 2026, happening in Jakarta (Indonesia) on 22–25 June 2026. This global event brings together leaders from universities, governments, the UN, business and civil society to accelerate action on the SDGs through cross-sector collaboration, innovation and discussion. 91亚色's UNESCO Chair team Charles Hopkins and Katrin Kohl will again moderate the , sponsored by the Education University of Hong Kong. It will be an exciting opportunity to connect, learn and contribute to global sustainability solutions.

Save the date for the 2026 Higher Education Summit, focusing on transformative learning and ESD, and inviting global collaboration on sustainable futures. The summit will take place in Bordeaux (France) on 26–28 August 2026 and bring together educators, researchers, students, and changemakers to share insights, dialogue, and co-create approaches for equitable and sustainable education.

Save the date for ANGEL Conference 2026 hosted by the (ANGEL) in Bologna (Italy) on 10–11 September 2026. This global conference will highlight recent and ongoing research, policy work, and diverse perspectives on global education and learning for sustainability and justice. Early career researchers, policy-makers, and practitioners alike are encouraged to mark their calendars and watch for the call for submissions in the coming weeks.

Save the date for the 13th World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC) 2026, taking place on 21–25 September 2026 in Perth (Western Australia). WEEC is an international gathering on environmental education and ESD, bringing together educators, researchers, policy-makers, and practitioners from around the world to share, learn, and collaborate. Abstract submissions and registrations are now open.

Save the date for the AASHE 2026 Conference & Expo, taking place in Baltimore (Maryland, United States) on 4-6 October 2026. Hosted by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE), this annual gathering brings together faculty, sustainability professionals, administrators, students, and partners to share ideas, innovations, and actions that advance sustainability across higher education.

Save the date for the 17^th General Conference of the International Association of Universities (IAU), taking place 3–6 November 2026 in Perth (Western Australia), hosted by Murdoch University. The conference will feature a dynamic programme exploring emerging trends in higher education from diverse regional perspectives and bring together global leaders, scholars, and partners to shape the future of universities.

Save the date for the 2026 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31), taking place in Antalya (Türkiye) on 9–20 November 2026. COP 30 accepted Türkiye’s offer to host COP 31 in Antalya, welcoming an arrangement between Türkiye and Australia to share the Presidency. COP31 is the 31^st session of the Conference of the Parties under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, bringing together governments, civil society, knowledge institutions, and stakeholders to advance global climate action and policy. Education days during COPs regularly highlight the relevance of climate change education and ESD.

UNESCO, together with the Romanian National Commission for UNESCO and POLITEHNICA University of Bucharest, convened the Global Symposium on Transforming Futures: Enhancing Practice for ESD for 2030 through Action Research on 19-21 January 2026 in Bucharest, Romania. The event brought together educators, researchers, ASPnet coordinators, and other education stakeholders from around the world to share lessons learned and good practices from action research that advances ESD for 2030.

The ESD-NET Europe–North America Regional Workshop took place from 21–23 January 2026 in Bucharest, Romania, convening ESD-NET focal points, member state representatives, UNESCO Chairs, youth networks, and regional partners. Co-organized by UNESCO, the Romanian National Commission for UNESCO, and POLITEHNICA University of Bucharest, the workshop focused on strengthening regional collaboration on ESD for 2030, with particular attention to action research, greening education, biodiversity, youth engagement, and pathways toward post-2030 agendas.

The 14th Global RCE Conference was held on 21–23 October 2025 in Okayama, Japan. The conference brought together Regional Centers of Expertise on ESD (RCEs) and key stakeholders across the globe in celebrating the 20^th anniversary of the Global RCE Network. It reflected on the evolving role of ESD in addressing sustainability challenges and explored new approaches to education towards a more inclusive, innovative and sustainable world. One of the central outcomes was the 2025 Okayama Declaration on ESD.