Ho Chi Minh City and Son La in the northern mountainous province of the same name have been recognized as members of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities, according to an announcement by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on February 14.

They were among 64 new members from 35 countries and territories recognized by UNESCO for their outstanding efforts to make lifelong learning a reality for everyone at the local level.

New learning cities are selected based on recommendations from a jury of experts. A strong commitment to lifelong learning by the mayor and city administrators and a track record of good practice and policy initiatives are key prerequisites.

Vietnam has three other cities already in the network - Sa Dec and Cao Lanh in the Mekong Delta’s Dong Thap province and Vinh in north-central Nghe An province.

The network currently has 356 members from 79 countries and territories.