The World Environment Education Congress, (WEEC), will discuss the role and importance of education in environmental work and sustainability at all levels in both formal and informal education.
The congress in 2024 will be used by individuals, institutions, networks, alliances, and other organizations involved in environmental education to exchange knowledge and discourse.
WEEC, which takes place every two years, is one the most important global events that brings together educational experts from all over the world.
They meet to discuss best practices, research, and experiences on environmental education methods and results under the supervision and assistance of a scientific panel representing all continents.
Under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Environment Agency-Abu Dhabi (EAD), Abu Dhabi will host the 12th World Environment Education Congress (WEEC).
The congress was planned in collaboration and coordination of the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi.
WEEC, which is one of the most important events and conferences in the field of environmental education in the world, will take place from January 29 until February 2, 2024, under the theme ‘Connecting People, Creating Tomorrow.’ The hosting of the congress by EAD was officially announced during the 11th edition of WEEC in Prague, Czech Republic, in March 2022.
This congress is an important international event that will be of interest to anyone working in the field of sustainable development and environmental education.
It provides an opportunity for educators, students, researchers, decision-makers, and those working in the media to learn about a range important topics relating to the environment.
The congress will feature a variety of speakers from around the globe discussing environmental issues. It will also provide an opportunity for anyone who wants to share their work or present it. The congress will encourage investment in information technology, including open education, distance learning, knowledge dissemination, and knowledge sharing for all.
Dr Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of EAD said: “We are honoured to represent Abu Dhabi in hosting the 12th World Environment Education Congress, a significant event that brings together a diverse group of experts and professionals committed to disseminating environmental education ideas. Environmental education is the only way to promote environmentally responsible behavior and create change in society. We are lucky to live in an age where governments have started to put the environment at the forefront of their national agendas. We are also fortunate that more members of the community are becoming conscious of the need of environmental preservation to rescue the planet.”
She added: “This conference gives an opportunity to activate and strengthen EAD’s position in the field of environmental education, as well as to activate environmental and sustainable development policies. The congress, which is in line with the UAE Centennial 2071 will also promote the exchange of regional, global and global educational experiences to promote a competitive economic system that is innovative while encouraging investment in the country’s youth. This will equip them with skills and knowledge that respond to rapid changes and transform educational institutions in the country into global research centres.”
Ahmed Baharoon, Executive Director, Environmental Information, Science & Outreach Management: “I am extremely grateful that the Organising Committee of WEEC selected my country, the UAE for the momentous occasion of hosting WEEC 2024. We are thrilled that an event as significant as WEEC will be on our home turf, and we will work endlessly to ensure that it is a huge success and inspiration for positive action towards the conservation of the environment.”
He added: “We respect and encourage the exchange of information and dialogue between experts and those who are interested in the field of environmental education, whether they work on an individual or institutional level. We recognize the vital role education plays in raising awareness of important topics that are threatening our planet. Education is the only way we can reduce negative behaviours that directly harm our precious environment. This is the role of all those who work in this field. Events like WEEC facilitate the development of policies and initiation of projects that can help us protect nature.”
The network has hosted ten international conferences since 2003. There have been thousands of participants from more than 100 countries, including government officials, journalists, political representatives and foundations. TradeArabia News Service