The UNESCO Associated Schools Network (ASPnet) is a global network of nearly 10,000 schools across 167 countries, united by a shared mission: to build peace in the minds of children and young people through education.
Established by UNESCO, ASPnet brings together schools and educational institutions that actively promote peace, human rights, sustainable development, global citizenship, and intercultural dialogue through teaching, learning, and school-wide practices.
What Is the UNESCO Associated Schools Network (ASPnet)?
The UNESCO Associated Schools Network is a flagship global education initiative that connects learners, teachers, and education leaders around UNESCO’s core values. ASPnet schools translate international ideals into concrete classroom actions, school projects, and community engagement.
Through the Network, schools work collectively to promote:
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Human rights and dignity
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Gender equality and inclusion
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Social progress and justice
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Democracy and freedom
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Respect for cultural diversity
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International solidarity and peace
ASPnet operates at both national and international levels, fostering collaboration between schools, governments, and education stakeholders worldwide.
ASPnet’s Three Core Education Priorities
ASPnet schools align their activities around three global education priorities:
1. Education for Sustainable Development (ESD)
Helping learners develop the knowledge, skills, and values needed to address climate change, environmental protection, and sustainable lifestyles.
2. Global Citizenship Education (GCED)
Encouraging young people to become active, responsible global citizens who promote peace, human rights, tolerance, and social justice.
3. Intercultural and Heritage Learning
Promoting cultural diversity, intercultural dialogue, and the safeguarding of tangible and intangible heritage through education.
Who Can Join the UNESCO Associated Schools Network?
Membership in ASPnet is open to recognized public or private educational institutions within UNESCO Member States, including:
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Pre-primary schools
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Primary and secondary schools
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Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions
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Teacher Training Colleges
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Education and Teacher Education Institutions
To join, institutions must demonstrate a strong commitment to integrating UNESCO’s ideals into their:
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School governance and policies
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Curriculum and teaching methods
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Student projects and extracurricular activities
All members are expected to follow guidance outlined in the UNESCO ASPnet Guide for Members.
How to Join the UNESCO Associated Schools Network
If your institution is interested in becoming an ASPnet member, you should:
- Familiarize yourself with UNESCO, the Network and its activities.
- Contact the ASPnet National Coordinator in your country and consult with them.
- Ensure that the school leadership, teaching body, and student representatives of your school/institution are in agreement with the decision to apply.
After completing these steps, you can start applying through the ASPnet platform.
ASPnet Connect: The Global Collaboration Platform
ASPnet Connect is the official collaborative platform of the UNESCO Associated Schools Network.
The platform offers:
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A global map and directory of ASPnet member institutions and national networks
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An online application system for candidate institutions
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A secure collaborative workspace for knowledge-sharing and communication among National Coordinators and schools
ASPnet Connect supports international collaboration and is available in English, French, and Spanish.
Why Join the UNESCO Associated Schools Network?
Becoming an ASPnet member allows institutions to:
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Join a respected global UNESCO education network
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Access international collaboration opportunities
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Strengthen teaching in sustainability, citizenship, and peace education
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Empower students to become active agents of positive change
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Align school practices with global education standards and values
The UNESCO Associated Schools Network is more than a school network—it is a global movement for peace, sustainability, and shared humanity through education. By joining ASPnet, schools commit to shaping learners who are prepared not just for exams, but for life in an interconnected world.
