HCMC – Hanoi has officially joined UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities, marking international recognition of the city’s long-term efforts to promote lifelong learning and build an inclusive learning society.
The announcement was made on December 4, with UNESCO confirming 72 new member cities from 46 countries, following a rigorous review process by the organization. Hanoi is one of six Vietnamese cities now included in the network.
UNESCO’s recognition highlights Hanoi’s sustained commitment to providing learning opportunities for all residents and advancing inclusive, innovative, and sustainable socio-economic development. The achievement also reflects the coordinated efforts of the Hanoi People’s Committee, the Vietnam National Commission for UNESCO, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Education and Training, Vietnam’s Permanent Delegation to UNESCO, and local and international experts.
Deputy Foreign Minister Ngo Le Van, who also chairs the Vietnam National Commission for UNESCO, said the recognition aligns with national policies promoting lifelong learning and developing a learning society across the country.
Vietnam’s Ambassador to UNESCO Nguyen Thi Van Anh described the announcement as a shared achievement for Hanoi and Vietnam, strengthening the growing partnership between the country and UNESCO. The recognition also supports the government’s broader goals under the national strategy on international integration in education and training through 2030, approved in late 2024, and the Politburo’s Resolution No. 71 (August 2025) on breakthroughs in education development.
Established in 2013, the Global Network of Learning Cities provides a platform for international exchange, enabling member cities to share expertise and best practices in building and maintaining learning-focused communities. With the latest additions, the network now includes 425 cities from 91 countries.
Membership will give Hanoi opportunities to cooperate with global experts and other learning cities, attract investment in education, and strengthen its role as a regional hub for educational, cultural, and creative collaboration.
Other Vietnamese cities previously admitted to the network include Sa Dec, Cao Lanh, Vinh, Son La, and HCMC. Vietnam now has six recognized Learning Cities.
