In a panel discussion at Istinye University in Istanbul on 12 December, 2024 titled “A Vision of Future Education,” GSI President, Jonathan Granoff, spoke with top UNDP representatives on the crucial role of education and global collaboration in addressing pressing issues like poverty, inequality, and human security.
Granoff hosted a panel that included Boaz Paldi, Communications and Partnerships Specialist, Bureau of External Relations and Advocacy at UNDP, Robert Bernado, Team Leader, Governance and Peacebuilding Team, Istanbul Regional Hub at UNDP, and Heriberto Tapia, Research and Strategic Partnership Advisor, Human Development Report Office, UNDP.
Boaz Paldi, who is also the UNDP’s Chief Creative Officer, highlighted the organization’s extensive work to combat inequality and promote inclusive societies, while Granoff stressed the need for prioritizing education that prepares youth for evolving job markets and technologies. They both emphasized the interconnectedness of humanity and environmental health, advocating for a comprehensive approach to education that nurtures critical thinking and resilience, particularly among marginalized communities. The dialogue called for addressing disparities in access to technology and fostering solidarity to tackle global challenges such as climate change, conflicts, and socio-economic divides. Ultimately, they underscored that human security must take precedence over traditional national security, focusing on freedoms, dignity, and global cooperation.
Boaz outlined the multifaceted challenges in reducing inequality, such as empowering women and addressing essential needs like water and sanitation, particularly in regions like Africa where children’s education can be hindered by the necessity of fetching water. He emphasized the organization’s vast operations, with 23,000 personnel across 170 countries executing around 6,000 programs aimed at creating a more just and equitable future.
Granoff underlined the urgent need to prioritize political will and resources to eliminate poverty, and pointed out the stark contrast between the United Nations’ development budget and military spending. He points out that while military expenditures reach approximately $2.2 trillion, the UN’s budget remains below $5 billion, leaving many, particularly children in South Asia, in dire poverty and insecurity. Granoff advocates for an educational narrative that promotes the ability to eradicate poverty through technical skills, diplomacy, and law.
Granoff also called for a holistic pedagogy that encompasses the “why” of being human, rather than merely focusing on technological advancements and materialistic pursuits. He also praised the universal appeal of the poetry of Rumi and the need to share such wisdom more widely.
The Global Security Institute is dedicated to strengthening international peace and security based on co-operation, diplomacy, shared interests, the rule of law and universal values. Our efforts are guided by the skills and commitment of our team of former heads of state, distinguished diplomats and politicians, celebrities, religious leaders, Nobel Peace Laureates, disarmament and legal experts, and concerned informed citizens. Our focus is on controlling and eliminating humanity’s greatest threat – nuclear weapons.
