Global Network of Learning Cities: Warangal joins UNESCO's coveted list

For the record, Warangal has joined the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities.

Telangana gets its second UNESCO recognition in the last one year. Earlier, 13th Century Ramappa Temple in Warangal was declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO

Warangal's economy is primarily composed of agricultural, industrial, and service sectors. The city has a rich cultural heritage and welcomes 3.2 million tourists every year, making it one of the major tourist attractions in India.

Vision and Strategy

Warangal views lifelong learning as the path to achieving a green and healthy living environment. "Through its lifelong learning initiative, the city plants trees, develops more recreational areas, improves facilities and governance, and provides job opportunities for marginalized groups," said Sudha Rani Gundu, Warangal Mayor.

The city also aims to promote social cohesion by hosting events, festivals, and awareness campaigns to encourage citizens to participate in public activities.

She further stated that the city has developed a city-level urban policy framework that focuses on providing civic facilities and promoting healthy living. "As part of this framework, learning spaces and platforms for citizens to participate in decision-making processes have been developed with incentives for participating and contributing to achieving the strategic goals," she added.

Equity and inclusion

Warangal has also implemented several strategies to promote equity and inclusion, including the Women and Child Welfare policy, Urban Policy, and the creation of an advisory committee to monitor and evaluate the impact of initiatives on marginalized groups.

Decent work and entrepreneurship

The municipality has created skill development centers to identify training needs and provide training in those areas that will contribute to economic development and reduce unemployment. "The collaborative approach between the city, the district, NGOs, and educational institutions guarantees that resources are shared to promote entrepreneurship," Sudha said.

Self-help groups

Over 125,000 citizens belong to various self-help groups throughout the city, which address women, people with disabilities, marginalized and vulnerable communities.

"I believe that Warangal's vision for inclusive and sustainable development is in line with the UNESCO GNLC concept," Sudha said.