Director-General's remarks at UNESCO-IBE's Centenary Inaugural Event

UNESCO-IBE Centenary Celebrations Inaugural Event: “From Geneva to the World – A Journey to Transform Curriculum and Learning. UNESCO-IBE at the Heart of a Century of Innovation in Education”
Friday, 24 January 2025 at 6.00 p.m.
Conference Hall, Maison de la Paix

Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is my great pleasure to address you this evening as we celebrate the centenary of the UNESCO International Bureau of Education. 

This occasion is not only a celebration of 100 years of remarkable achievements but also an opportunity to reflect on how education shapes the just, inclusive, and peaceful future we collectively strive to achieve.

The UNESCO International Bureau of Education was established in Geneva in 1925, just a few years after the creation of the League of Nations, which advocated for a new world order based on cooperation and peace. Establishing an international educational entity in Geneva was crucial at that time as it highlighted the global commitment to fostering collaboration and promoting education as a cornerstone for peace and progress. 

The theme of today’s celebration — “From Geneva to the World – A Journey to Transform Curriculum and Learning — underscores Geneva’s unique role as a long-standing hub for multilateralism, innovation, and norm-setting. It highlights how ideas incubated here have transcended borders, inspiring scholars, educators and policymakers worldwide to shape innovative curricula and reform education policies and practices. 

Education is central to the 2030 Agenda, particularly in achieving SDG 4: ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all. Moreover, quality education is foundational to the realization of all 17 Sustainable Development Goals, from eradicating poverty and reducing inequalities to combating climate change and fostering global peace.

The adoption of the Pact for the Future last year marked the watershed moment for multilateral cooperation. The Pact is our collective promise to build a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable world for generations to come. With the world population projected to reach 8.5 billion by 2030 and 9.7 billion by 2050, transformative education is key in equipping these future learners with the relevant knowledge, skills and values needed to address complex global challenges and seize opportunities for innovation and collaboration. Therefore, education is crucial in turning the promises outlined in the Pact into reality. 

As we look ahead, we face the dual challenge of bridging inequalities and leveraging the opportunities presented by technology and innovation. By harnessing the power of technological advancements, we can expand access, personalize learning, and ensure that education systems play a critical role in closing the digital divide.

As we celebrate the centenary of the UNESCO International Bureau of Education, let us recommit to working together to build a future where education continues to be a catalyst for positive change in every corner of the world.

I wish you an enlightening roundtable and once again, happy anniversary!

Thank you.