[Hong Kong, 21 July 2025] – The Sprinkles Charity Foundation (Sprinkles) co-organised the “2025 Secondary School Model UNESCO (MUNESCO) International Conference on Smart and Sustainable Cities” in Hong Kong, held from July 19–20, 2025. This event, jointly organised with the UNESCO Hong Kong Association (UHKA) and the Hong Kong Institute of Education for Sustainable Development (HiESD), highlights the region's commitment to inspiring youth-driven contributions to global sustainability. The conference was sponsored by Bank of China (Hong Kong) (BOCHK) and supported by various organisations, including the World Federation of Clubs and Associations for UNESCO, the Education Bureau, the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau, the Housing Bureau, and the Council for Carbon Neutrality and Sustainable Development of the HKSAR Government, along with numerous universities and educational organisations across Hong Kong.

Building on the outstanding success and international recognition of the past four editions, the 2025 conference brought together over 800 passionate secondary school students and educators from India, Malaysia, Nepal, the Philippines, Poland, Thailand, Turkmenistan, the United Kingdom, as well as major cities across China, including Hong Kong SAR, Macau SAR, Shanghai, and Shenzhen. These young leaders engaged in vibrant dialogue, negotiation, and collaboration to co-create visionary solutions for innovative and sustainable cities.

Model UNESCO is a youth-led platform simulating UNESCO assemblies, where students represent Member States to explore global issues and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs). Participants develop interdisciplinary skills such as strategic thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving while embracing diverse cultures and perspectives.

The 2025 conference required rigorous preparation, including training, video submissions, and regional competitions. Delegates collaboratively drafted the “Youth Prospect on Smart and Sustainable Cities”, advancing Sustainable Development Goal 11 to shape future cities.

The kickoff ceremony was officiated by several distinguished guests, including Mr. TAI Sheung Shing, Victor, JP, Director of the Hong Kong Institute of Education for Sustainable Development; Mr. Bindeswar Prasad LEKHAK, Under Secretary for Housing of the Housing Bureau of the Government of the HKSAR; Ms. Darya Bohdan, Consul General of Nepal in Hong Kong; Mr. Von Ryan S. Ferrera, Consul of the Consulate General of the Philippines in Hong Kong; Mrs. Magdalena Żukowska, Deputy Consul General of Poland in Hong Kong; and Miss AU Wing Yan, Christine, Principal Assistant Secretary (Planning & Lands) 2 of the Development Bureau of the Government of the HKSAR.

This year’s conference provided a vibrant platform for exchanging innovative ideas on urban sustainability while celebrating the richness of global cultures. By uniting young minds from around the world, the event showcased Hong Kong’s leadership in sustainable urban development and technological innovation. Through collaboration, creativity, and a shared vision, the conference empowered the next generation to design inclusive, resilient, and intelligent cities, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

Professor Karen Cheung, President of the UNESCO Hong Kong Association and Director of the Hong Kong Institute of Education for Sustainable Development, delivered the welcome speech at the ceremony. She emphasised that the conference aligns with UNESCO’s mission as a hub for innovative ideas and an advocate for international dialogue. Professor Cheung highlighted the collaboration of eight city-related networks and programs within UNESCO’s areas of expertise, including the Creative Cities Network, the Global Network of Learning Cities, and Media and Information Literacy Cities. These initiatives aim to build inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable communities.

Warm congratulations to all delegates and awardees! Sprinkles is dedicated to empowering youth, fostering cultural exchange, and advancing international cooperation to create a brighter, more sustainable future. Together, let us continue building a world where innovation drives lasting change.

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For more information, please visit:
https://unesco.hk/web/2025/07/20/model-unesco-international-conference-in-hong-kong-on-smart-and-sustainable-cities/