UNESCO-Japan Prize on Education for Sustainable Development 2025 (USD50,000 project funding)
Are you leading change through education? Do you believe learning can shape a better, more sustainable world? If your project is making real difference, now is the time to share it with UNESCO.
The UNESCO-Japan Prize on Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) is now open for nominations until 18 April 2025 (UTC+1, Paris time).
This prestigious award celebrates groundbreaking projects that empower learners with the knowledge and skills necessary to foster a sustainable future.
Three projects will each receive USD50,000 to scale-up their work.
Institutions, organizations, and entities engaged in innovative ESD initiatives are encouraged to apply or nominate their worthy projects for recognition.
About UNESCO
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has been at the forefront of promoting global education, science, culture, and communication since its establishment in 1945.
As a specialized agency of the United Nations, UNESCO supports sustainable development through education as a fundamental right and a pillar of international peace and security.
The UNESCO-Japan Prize, funded by the Government of Japan, was first awarded in 2015 and honors initiatives that connect social, economic, cultural, and environmental dimensions of sustainable development.
By recognizing pioneering educational practices, the Prize seeks to emphasize the role of education in resolving pressing global challenges, fostering social cohesion and promoting lasting change.
Why Apply?
Financial Support: Each of the three winners of the UNESCO-Japan Prize will receive USD 50,000 to enhance and scale their successful projects.
Global Recognition: Award-winning projects gain visibility on an international stage, showcasing their profound impact on education for sustainable development.
Network Expansion: Winners will join a global community of educators and innovators, facilitating partnerships that can lead to further opportunities and synergies.
Empower Change: This award not only acknowledges existing efforts but amplifies them, enabling projects to reach wider audiences and create a more sustainable future.
Tips for a Successful Application
Focus on Transformation: Clearly articulate how your project embodies transformative education that encourages learners to enact social changes and challenge existing norms. Provide compelling evidence of how your initiative has empowered individuals and communities.
Ensure Integrated Approach: Your project should address the three dimensions of sustainable development—society, economy, and environment—in a cohesive manner. Illustrate how your initiative fosters understanding of their interconnectedness among learners.
Highlight Innovation: Showcase your project’s innovative methodologies and unique approaches to ESD. Discuss any collaborations beyond traditional education sectors and the creative strategies you have implemented.
Demonstrate Impact: Provide qualitative and quantitative evidence of your project’s results and effectiveness. Emphasize the sustainability and scalability of the model, clarifying how it can be replicated in different contexts.
Preparation is Key: Complete the online nomination form in English or French, ensuring that all required fields are filled out meticulously. Gather and include supplementary materials such as publications, photos, or videos that effectively illustrate your project.
Engage Your Nominating Entity: Ensure that your nomination is submitted by an authorized entity (e.g. government body, NGO, or foundation in partnership with UNESCO). Remember, self-nominations are not permitted.
How to Apply
The selection of the award winners will be conducted by an independent international jury appointed by the Director-General of UNESCO.
Projects will be evaluated based on the outlined criteria, with emphasis on their transformative nature, integration of sustainable practices, and innovative elements.
For More Information and Submission Guidelines:
Visit UNESCO website for detailed statutes, explanatory notes, and user guides aligned with the nomination process.
Contact Email: esdprize@unesco.org for any inquiries related to the application process.
Seize this opportunity to share your transformative educational projects with a global community dedicated to sustainable development.
Apply before the deadline of 18 April 2025 and contribute to shaping a better, sustainable world through education!
