As the UN Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (UNDESD) reaches its final stages, it is time to explore the idea of what happens beyond 2014. The Decade has influenced many SDE initiatives in Scotland, showcasing Scotland as a leader in the sector. Yet as 2014 draws nearer, it becomes evermore pertinent to ensure the momentum that is currently seen throughout Scotland continues beyond the Decade.

Regional Centres of Expertise (RCEs) have been identified as a mechanism to encourage development and strengthening of SDE practice across a define region. Recognised through the United Nations Universities (UNU), an RCE is a network of formal, non-formal and informal education organisations, mobilised to deliver SDE to local and regional communities. The RCE is a non-prescribed model, enabling a region to self-define and shape their RCE based on their needs.  RCEs also form a global network, allowing regions to share and learn from each other, and establish or strengthen international partnerships and collaboration.

Through consultation with the SDE community of Scotland, it was agreed to consider establishment of an RCE in Scotland, defining the region as the country of Scotland.  It is with great pleasure that we can announce the final application for RCE Scotland has been submitted to the UNU for consideration. This marks the final stage of the document-based application process.

For more details of the RCE Scotland and the activety being undertaken to establish it, please see www.rcescotland.wordpress.com