UNESCO and Africa’s leading digital TV operator StarTimes. Together, they have formally established a partnership by signing an MoU that will see the parties engage in joint projects. The partnership aims to promote quality and inclusive education and literacy, enhancing youth participation in the cultural and creative industries. They also aim at advancing gender equality in sports and building inclusive knowledge societies.

UNESCO’s communication materials will reach a wide range of audience in sub-Saharan Africa across the StarTimes broadcast network.

The Parties will explore all the available opportunities to co-produce content as well as to develop projects. Solely related to information-and-communication-technology-based education, artificial intelligence, youth empowerment, social inclusion. This will be for people living with disabilities, and cultural and creative industries.

 “Partnerships with private sector are crucial to address today’s global and regional challenges. UNESCO emphasizes and values these partnerships contributing to optimal results for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). StarTimes, as a leading TV operator in Africa, has been actively fulfilling its corporate social responsibilities in sub-Saharan Africa and China. Upholding shared mission and goals, this newly-established partnership with StarTimes will bring together advantages and resources to maximize impacts in the areas of education, culture, social and human science, as well as communication and information”. said Mr Ydo Yao, the Regional Director and Representative of UNESCO.

Additionally, UNESCO grants high priority to supporting the Member States to achieve sustainable development in Africa. Thus creating an enabling environment for gender equality, promoting quality and inclusive education and literacy. While enhancing youth participation in the cultural and creative industries, as well as building inclusive knowledge societies.

 “StarTimes is deeply honoured to partner with UNESCO. This is consistent with the work we have been doing with UNAIDS to raise awareness on HIV/Aids, and with SOS Children’s Villages to empower African youth. StarTimes is committed toward helping African societies to rise in a sustainable manner. And this partnership with UNESCO is a new step toward that goal.”. Said Mr Luis Lu, the Vice-President of StarTimes.