UNESCO World Conference on ESD 2027 Call for Proposals – Nairobi, Kenya
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UNESCO World Conference on Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) 2027 – submit a parallel session proposal for the global conference in Nairobi, Kenya
Complete guide to conference themes, proposal submission, eligibility, and key dates
Quick Highlights
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Conference | UNESCO World Conference on Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) |
| Organiser | UNESCO |
| Host Country | Kenya |
| Host City | Nairobi |
| Conference Dates | 13–15 January 2027 |
| Opportunity | Call for Proposals for Parallel Sessions |
| Session Duration | Maximum 90 minutes |
| Eligible Applicants | Global ESD stakeholders and organizations |
| Proposal Deadline | 31 August 2026 |
| Official Website |
Opportunity Overview
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Organisation | UNESCO & Government of Kenya |
| Opportunity Category | Call for Proposals / Conference |
| Location | Nairobi, Kenya |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Official Language | English |
About the Conference
The UNESCO World Conference on Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) is a landmark international event designed to strengthen the global role of education in achieving sustainable development.
Hosted jointly by UNESCO and the Government of Kenya, the conference aims to create renewed momentum for the implementation of the ESD for 2030 Framework while providing strategic direction beyond 2030.
The conference will take place in Nairobi, Kenya, from 13–15 January 2027, bringing together ministers, policymakers, educators, youth leaders, researchers, civil society organizations, United Nations agencies, private sector representatives, and other stakeholders.
Why Education for Sustainable Development Matters
Education for Sustainable Development equips people with the skills necessary to make informed decisions that benefit society, the economy, and the environment.
It enables learners to:
Think critically
Solve complex problems
Promote social justice
Protect biodiversity
Address climate change
Foster peace and inclusion
Encourage responsible citizenship
Build resilient communities
Why You Should Apply
Global Visibility: Showcase your work before a global audience.
Networking: Connect with governments, UNESCO officials, researchers, educators, and youth leaders.
Strategic Collaboration: Collaborate directly with UNESCO.
Policy Influence: Shape future global discussions on ESD.
International Recognition: Increase organizational recognition.
Key Themes of the Conference
| Theme | Details |
|---|---|
| Green Skills | Preparing learners for sustainable economies, green jobs, environmental stewardship, climate resilience |
| Technological Innovation | How technology can support sustainable education while addressing digital inclusion and equity |
| Social and Emotional Learning | Empathy, collaboration, resilience, and responsible decision-making |
| Inclusive and Equitable Education | Ensuring education reaches learners from all backgrounds |
| Global Partnerships | Stronger collaboration among governments, educational institutions, civil society, and private sector |
Who Can Submit Proposals?
| Eligible Organizations | Details |
|---|---|
| United Nations agencies | UN bodies |
| Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) | NGOs, nonprofits |
| Academic institutions | Universities, colleges |
| Universities and research centers | Higher education, research |
| Private sector organizations | Companies, businesses |
| Government institutions | Ministries, departments |
| UNESCO Member States | National governments |
| International organizations | Global bodies |
| Regional organizations | Regional bodies |
| Educational institutions | Schools, training centers |
| NGOs | Non-governmental organizations |
| Multi-stakeholder partnerships | Collaborative initiatives |
Organizations from every region of the world are encouraged to participate.
About the Parallel Sessions
Selected organizations will co-organize thematic parallel sessions lasting up to 90 minutes.
These sessions should:
Encourage dialogue
Promote knowledge exchange
Share innovative practices
Present research findings
Highlight practical experiences
Foster collaboration among stakeholders
Proposal Submission Process
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Develop a proposal for a thematic parallel session |
| 2 | Ensure the session does not exceed 90 minutes |
| 3 | Complete the official proposal questionnaire |
| 4 | Follow all instructions provided in the questionnaire |
| 5 | Submit the proposal before 31 August 2026 |
Note: Each organization may submit only one proposal. Organizations may suggest multiple speakers.
Selection Process
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Compliance | Meets eligibility requirements |
| Relevance | Aligns with ESD priorities |
| Quality | High quality and originality |
| Contribution | Adds value to conference objectives |
| Diversity | Diverse perspectives represented |
| Practical Value | Actionable insights |
| Collaboration | Potential for international collaboration |
Advisory Group
The conference programme is guided by an international Advisory Group:
Co-chaired by UNESCO and the Government of Kenya
Composed of UNESCO Member States
Supported by ESD experts from around the world
Responsibilities of Selected Co-organizers
Collaborate with UNESCO
Work with partner organizations
Refine the session concept
Identify speakers and panelists
Develop the session agenda
Coordinate presentations
Facilitate the session during the conference in Nairobi
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Proposal Deadline | 31 August 2026 |
| Conference Dates | 13–15 January 2027 |
Important Links
| Description | Official URL |
|---|---|
| Apply Online | |
| Official Website |
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Q1. What is the UNESCO ESD Conference? | A global conference on Education for Sustainable Development in Nairobi, Kenya. |
| Q2. Who can submit proposals? | UN agencies, CSOs, academic institutions, private sector, governments, NGOs. |
| Q3. What is the opportunity? | Co-organize a parallel session (max 90 minutes). |
| Q4. What are the key themes? | Green skills, technological innovation, social-emotional learning, inclusive education, global partnerships. |
| Q5. What is the deadline? | 31 August 2026. |
| Q6. Where is the conference? | Nairobi, Kenya. |
| Q7. When is the conference? | 13–15 January 2027. |
| Q8. How can I apply? | Submit a proposal through the UNESCO questionnaire. |
CareerFlora Expert Insight
The UNESCO World Conference on ESD 2027 offers a unique opportunity for organizations to contribute to global education policy discussions. With Nairobi hosting this landmark event, African organizations and those working in the Global South are particularly encouraged to participate.
The conference themes — green skills, technological innovation, social-emotional learning, inclusive education, and global partnerships — reflect the evolving priorities of sustainable education. Organizations with innovative initiatives and practical experiences should seize this opportunity.
Best Opportunity For
| Category | Suitable |
|---|---|
| UN Agencies | Yes |
| CSOs/NGOs | Yes |
| Academic Institutions | Yes |
| Universities | Yes |
| Research Centers | Yes |
| Private Sector | Yes |
| Governments | Yes |
| International Organizations | Yes |
| Regional Organizations | Yes |
| Educational Institutions | Yes |
| Individual Applicants | No (organizations only) |
Competition Level
| Category | Level |
|---|---|
| Overall Competition | High |
| Selection Difficulty | Moderate |
| Application Complexity | Medium |
CareerFlora Recommendation
| Recommendation Area | Details |
|---|---|
| Value | Excellent |
| Career Growth | Very High |
| Application Difficulty | Medium |
| Apply Early | Strongly Recommended |
Final Call-to-Action
Submit a proposal for UNESCO World Conference on ESD 2027 before 31 August 2026.
Visit the official UNESCO website.
Complete the proposal questionnaire.
Submit your proposal before the deadline.
Follow CareerFlora for the latest updates.
