Islamabad—Around 100 stakeholders including government representatives, diplomatic partners, civil society, stakeholders from development and private sector, artists, activists, and experts attended an outreach event “UNESConnect” held at Islamabad Serena Hotel by UNESCO Pakistan.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations working closely with the government and people of Pakistan since 1958. UNESCO was founded with the mission of contributing to peace and security by promoting international collaboration through education, science, culture, and information. UNESCO Representative to Pakistan Ms.Patricia McPhillips welcomed the guests and stated that, “A successful development agenda requires inclusive partnerships. UNESCO believes in a partnership-based approach founded on a sense of shared purpose and mutual accountability. Together, we want to find newer, better, more sustainable ways to make a difference”.
UNESCO hosted the event to facilitate meaningful engagement with a diverse range of stakeholders, andhighlight the specialized strengths, opportunities, and assets that UNESCO possesses to support the development agenda 2030 in Pakistan, in the fields of education, culture, science, and information. A special performanceby musician AriebAzharkicked off the event. The event marked UNESCO's 75-year legacy of working to promote peace in Pakistan and across the world.
Renowned journalist Zarrar Khuhro moderated an open discussion to brainstorm ideas in developing linkages among public, private, and multilateral organizations to address eminent challenges facing Pakistan.
Participants pledged to support UNESCO’s mission in Pakistan to mitigate climate change, increase access to education, leverage digital technologies to reduce inequalities, and preserve Pakistan’s rich and diverse cultural heritage for future generations.