Speech by the World Federation of Clubs and Associations for UNESCO during the 3rd World Conference on Culture and Arts Education
On February 15th, Mrs. Youngshik Kim, Vice-President for the Asia-Pacific Region of the World Federation of Clubs and Associations for UNESCO (WFUCA), addressed the participants of the side event “Towards the Implementation of the UNESCO Framework for Culture and Arts Education” during the 3rd World Conference on Culture and Arts Education in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).
In her address at the occasion, hosted by the World Alliance for Arts Education (WAAE), World Dance Alliance (WDA), Dance and the Child International (daCi), The International Society for Education through Art (InSEA) and the Porto Santo Charter, Mrs. Kim emphasized the significance of the efforts of member countries of the World Federation in advancing UNESCO’s key priorities. She highlighted the importance of cultural and arts education, uniting the efforts of nearly 5000 organizations in 89 countries worldwide.
“Our movement, which was born in 1947 put a great attention to the aspects of Culture and Arts Education. In this regard, our civic movement has united around a goal to implement various international projects aimed at promotion of cultural diversity and arts education approached though different esthetics”, – stated Mrs. Youngshik Kim.
She pointed out several key international projects such as Mitsubishi Asian Children’s Enikki Festa and the International Youth Festival “The Planet of ART”, which promote understanding and interaction between cultures, as well as promote intercultural dialogue and peace.
In conclusion of her speech, she also outlined WFUCA strongly believes and invites all stakeholders to unite our forces in order to greatly contribute to design and implementation of new approaches in the development of culture and arts education expertise for a better and more sustainable future.
The 3rd World Conference was held from 13 to 15 February 2024 and provided a space for Member States and diverse actors to update their perspectives on the topic, exchange experiences, and most importantly adopt a “Framework for Culture and Arts Education” that considers not just the “Arts” but also “Culture”, understood in the broadest sense.
This event also united relevant UN agencies, intergovernmental-organizations and UNESCO networks and partners in the field of culture and education to share practices and innovative ideas, as well as strengthen a global alliance for culture and arts education.