Context: Recently, 3 Indian cities of Warangal, Nilambur, and Thrissur have joined UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities.

• They became India’s first entrants in the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities.

• Nilambur has been the first town to be included in GNLC with less than 1 lakh population.

• Cities with a population of 5 lakh and above were usually considered by UNESCO for GNLC status.   

UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities(GNLC)

• It is an international network consisting of cities that successfully promote lifelong learning across their communities.

• The network supports the achievement of all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in particular SDG 4 (‘Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all’) and SDG 11 (‘Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable’).

What are the features of a learning city?

There are six features that define a learning city. These include cities that 

1. Effectively mobilize their resources in every sector to advocate inclusive learning, 
2. Revitalizes learning in families and communities, 
3. Facilitate learning for and at workplaces, 
4. Extend the use of modern learning technologies, 
5. Augments quality and excellence in learning and 
6. Fosters a culture of learning throughout life.

Why were Warangal, Thrissur and Nilambur included in the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities(GNLC) list?

• Thrissur: Popularly known as the cultural capital of Kerala. Thrissur is home to academic and research institutions. It is also known for its jewellery industry, especially gold. The city has been included because of its initiatives focusing on vulnerable groups.

• Warangal: It has a rich cultural heritage. The city is a major tourism venue. The city has been included for its good practices such as advocating healthy environments for children and caregivers, free training for the transgender community and self-help groups.

• Nilambur: It is an ecotourism destination in Kerala. It is a city with various socio-economic patterns marked by an urban and rural mix. The majority of the population depends on agriculture and allied industries.