Qatar-based NGO Reach Out To Asia (ROTA) has signed a letter of intent with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) to strengthen their collaboration around existing education projects across Asia, including the Middle East.

The agreement was signed by chairperson of Reach Out To Asia H.E. Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani and director-general of Unesco Koïchiro Matsuura during a special ceremony which was held at the Four Seasons Hotel, Doha.

As per the joint initiative - known as ‘Rota-Unesco Cooperation’ - the organisations agreed to foster their collaboration in Unesco’s educational objectives in general and Education For All (EFA) goals - which seeks to provide literacy to the global population; as well as education in conflict programmes.

Rota and Unesco will foster cooperation for the World Digital Project, wherein Rota will serve as a focal point for inclusion of Arab and Asian contribution to the project. The two establishments will also work together on tailored projects, including education, micro-finance and skills-building for sustainable development.

The agreement illustrates the key role to be played by Rota and Unesco to enhance the participation and cooperation with Arab and Asian countries in which Rota implements projects for the ASPnet and UNITWIN programmes, besides collaborating in best practice sharing and coordination in inclusive education.

Rota will also participate in the Consultative Council for the non-governmental organisations especially with respect to Education for All and cooperate with Unesco in sharing information and expertise with regards to alternative energy sources aimed at sustainable development. Rota and Unesco will also work together to design and enhance tailored educational methodologies for refugees in the Middle East and Africa. – TradeArabia News Service