The UNESCO Associated Schools Network (ASPnet), founded in 1953, is a global network of schools committed to promoting peace, human rights, sustainable development, and intercultural understanding through education. Coordinated by UNESCO, ASPnet connects close to 10,000 schools in 167 countries, working together to build peace in the minds of children and young people by translating UNESCO’s ideals into meaningful learning experiences.

ASPnet is guided by four main goals. First, it “empowers schools to act as laboratories of ideas, fostering innovation and transformation in education while promoting global citizenship, intercultural understanding, and sustainability”. Second, the network “strengthens global networking and collaboration by encouraging international cooperation, partnerships, and knowledge sharing among schools and countries”. Third, ASPnet “emphasizes capacity-building, supporting educators and institutions in developing innovative teaching practices and participatory, whole-school approaches to learning”. Finally, “through communication and advocacy, ASPnet promotes transformative education and quality improvement, increasing awareness and engagement among schools, communities, policy-makers, and the wider public”.

At both national and international levels, ASPnet focuses on three key priority areas: Education for Sustainable Development, Global Citizenship Education, and Intercultural and Heritage Learning. Through concrete actions and school-based projects, member schools actively promote UNESCO’s core values, including respect for human rights and dignity, gender equality, social progress, freedom, justice, democracy, cultural diversity, and international solidarity.

In Sri Lanka, more than 100 schools have already joined the UNESCO Associated Schools Network, demonstrating a strong national commitment to UNESCO’s vision of education as a force for peace and sustainable development. Through ASPnet, Sri Lankan schools contribute to global dialogue while nurturing responsible, informed, and compassionate young citizens who are prepared to engage positively at local, national, and global levels.