By Yunus S Saliu
The Gambia has reaffirmed its commitment to transformative education and international cooperation through its participation in the 2026 UNESCO Associated Schools Network (ASPnet) Global Conference held in Sanya, Hainan Province.
The country was represented by Lamin Jarjou, Senior Programme Officer and National ASPnet Coordinator at the Gambia National Commission for UNESCO.
The conference, held under the theme “Transformative Education in Action,” was co-hosted by UNESCO and the Education Department of Hainan Province. It was organised by the International Centre for UNESCO ASPnet (ICUA), a UNESCO Category II Centre, with support from the Chinese National Commission for UNESCO. Partners included China Daily and East China Normal University.
The event brought together National ASPnet Coordinators, education experts, academic institutions and development partners from around the world to exchange ideas on innovative approaches to education and strengthen international cooperation within the ASPnet framework.
Discussions focused on equipping learners with knowledge, critical thinking skills and inclusive values needed to address global challenges, as well as advancing Target 4.7 of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which promotes education for sustainable development, global citizenship, human rights and cultural diversity.
Participants also examined the 2023 UNESCO Recommendation on Education for Peace, Human Rights and Sustainable Development, exploring ways to strengthen the impact of ASPnet initiatives in schools and communities.
For The Gambia, the conference provided a platform to share experiences, learn from global best practices and strengthen partnerships aimed at improving educational outcomes. It also offered capacity-building and networking opportunities for ASPnet coordinators.
The conference brought together about 100 participants from 32 countries, reflecting the global reach of the UNESCO Associated Schools Network in promoting quality and transformative education.