A new milestone has been achieved in the world of global education and cultural development as UNESCO appoints a new Goodwill Ambassador for Education and Book Culture. The announcement, made by UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay, highlights the organization’s commitment to advancing literacy, creativity, and access to education around the world. The newly appointed ambassador expressed profound gratitude for this honor and emphasized the transformative power of books, knowledge, and learning.
Promoting Books and Learning as Tools for Peace and Progress
Books have long been recognized as one of the strongest tools for unity and understanding. The new UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador stated that books and learning are not only sources of knowledge but also bridges that connect people across differences. They nurture creativity, encourage dialogue, and promote tolerance—values that are essential in today’s interconnected world. By advocating for education and book culture, UNESCO continues its mission of promoting peace through the power of ideas. The ambassador noted that learning has the ability to shape future generations into compassionate, open-minded individuals who can build a more inclusive and informed world.
Sharjah’s Role in Promoting Global Education
This appointment also shines a light on Sharjah, a city that has long been known for its commitment to literacy and cultural development. The ambassador credited His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, whose vision has transformed Sharjah into a global hub for education, culture, and knowledge. Under his leadership, Sharjah has become synonymous with initiatives that promote reading and intellectual growth. The city has hosted international book fairs, established world-class libraries, and invested heavily in educational programs that support lifelong learning. This recognition by UNESCO reflects Sharjah’s broader mission to position knowledge and creativity as the foundation for human progress.
The Importance of Book Culture in Today’s World
In an era dominated by digital technology and social media, the promotion of book culture remains more relevant than ever. Books offer depth, reflection, and context that go beyond the fleeting information of the online world. The ambassador emphasized that encouraging people to read not only strengthens education but also deepens understanding of global cultures. Through reading, individuals gain exposure to new ideas, perspectives, and histories. This leads to greater empathy and helps build societies grounded in respect and cooperation. By focusing on education and book culture, UNESCO aims to keep the written word alive in a fast-changing digital age.
UNESCO’s Ongoing Mission for Global Literacy
For decades, UNESCO has been at the forefront of global literacy efforts. Its programs and initiatives have supported millions of learners around the world, from rural classrooms to digital learning platforms. The appointment of a new Goodwill Ambassador for Education and Book Culture reinforces the organization’s dedication to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 — ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all. Through collaborations with governments, authors, educators, and publishers, UNESCO continues to create environments where reading and learning are celebrated as universal human rights.
Strengthening Education Through Cultural Collaboration
One of the key goals of this ambassadorship is to strengthen the relationship between education and culture. Books are not only educational tools but also cultural artifacts that preserve language, identity, and heritage. By supporting cultural diversity in publishing and education, UNESCO hopes to empower communities to tell their own stories and pass them down through generations. The ambassador highlighted that education rooted in culture helps foster pride, understanding, and a sense of belonging among young learners.
Encouraging a Reading Culture Among Youth
The newly appointed ambassador has also expressed a strong desire to inspire young people to embrace reading. Many of today’s youth rely heavily on screens for entertainment and information, often neglecting books. The ambassador believes that reviving reading habits among younger generations is key to nurturing creativity and imagination. As part of this initiative, new campaigns will focus on promoting book fairs, reading competitions, and educational workshops across schools and communities worldwide. The goal is to make books accessible, engaging, and relevant to modern life.
The Power of the Written Word
Books have an unmatched ability to shape minds and societies. They spark ideas, challenge beliefs, and open doors to innovation. The ambassador described the written word as “a light that continues to guide humanity toward progress.” Through literature, people learn about empathy, resilience, and shared human experiences. Promoting book culture and education is not just about academic achievement—it’s about cultivating values that help people coexist peacefully. UNESCO’s vision aligns perfectly with this idea: a world where knowledge and creativity lead the way to a better future.
Sharjah’s Legacy of Knowledge and Learning
Sharjah’s recognition as part of this global effort is not accidental. Over the years, it has been home to major literary festivals, cultural events, and educational programs. The Sharjah International Book Fair is now one of the largest in the world, attracting publishers, authors, and readers from every continent. The city has also been declared the UNESCO World Book Capital, a title that reflects its long-standing contribution to literacy and education. This appointment further strengthens Sharjah’s legacy as a beacon of learning and intellectual development.
Working with UNESCO for a Brighter Future
In taking on this role, the ambassador expressed a deep commitment to working closely with UNESCO on initiatives that promote access to education and literacy worldwide. Plans include expanding digital learning tools, supporting book donation programs, and creating more inclusive educational environments for children in underserved regions. The ambassador also aims to promote equal access to learning resources for girls and marginalized communities, ensuring that education becomes a universal opportunity.
Conclusion: Lighting the Path Through Education and Books
The appointment of the UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Education and Book Culture represents hope, unity, and progress. It underscores the timeless truth that knowledge is the key to building a peaceful and inclusive world. Books are more than just pages—they are pathways to imagination, understanding, and growth. As UNESCO and its partners continue this mission, they remind us all of a simple but powerful message: when education thrives, humanity thrives.
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