GEP Confirms RCQE Accreditation Aligns with UNESCO Green School Standard

The Greening Education Partnership (GEP) Secretariat confirmed on October 23 that the accreditation system implemented by the UNESCO Regional Centre for Quality and Excellence in Education (RCQE), headquartered in Saudi Arabia, is fully aligned with UNESCO’s Green School Quality Standard. The announcement, released via the Saudi Press Agency, marks a significant step in global efforts to embed sustainability into educational institutions, with eligible schools accredited by RCQE now set to be recognized as GEP schools.

This recognition is more than a bureaucratic milestone. It signals that a Saudi-based regional centre has developed a quality framework rigorous enough to meet international benchmarks, and that Arab schools can now access a clear pathway to global green accreditation. For a region facing intensifying climate challenges, the alignment offers a practical tool to build resilience and improve educational outcomes. It also underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a convener and standard-setter in multilateral education initiatives, a role that aligns closely with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 ambitions.

Context and Background

How did a regional quality assurance body based in Saudi Arabia come to shape the future of green schools across the Arab world? The UNESCO Regional Centre for Quality and Excellence in Education, established in Riyadh, has spent years developing quality standards tailored to the needs of Arab education systems. Its latest initiative, the Arab Regional Network for Green School Quality, was designed to support sustainability, strengthen schools’ resilience to climate change, and improve the quality of education across Arab countries. The network provides a structured framework that schools can use to assess and improve their environmental performance.

The Greening Education Partnership, a global initiative coordinated by UNESCO, aims to transform at least 50% of schools in each country into green schools by 2030. To achieve this, the GEP relies on quality standards that ensure green school claims are credible and comparable across borders. The Green School Quality Standard, developed by UNESCO, sets out the criteria for what constitutes a green school. When the GEP Secretariat confirmed that RCQE’s accreditation scheme aligns with this standard, it effectively validated the Arab region’s approach and opened the door for RCQE-accredited schools to join the global GEP network.

This alignment did not happen overnight. It reflects years of technical work, regional consultations, and a commitment to evidence-based quality standards. The RCQE has been coordinating with national education authorities, National Commissions for UNESCO, and specialized teams to build technical capacity and facilitate the exchange of expertise. The recognition by the GEP Secretariat is a testament to the rigour of that process and to Saudi Arabia’s leadership in advancing quality education across the region.

Key Details of the Accreditation Scheme

What exactly does the RCQE accreditation scheme entail, and how will it be rolled out? The quality framework covers four main areas: leadership and governance; physical environment and resources; teaching and learning; and evaluation and continuous improvement. These areas are further divided into 12 standards and 34 measurable indicators, providing a comprehensive and transparent basis for assessing school performance. The framework assesses schools through self-evaluation, external evaluation, and accreditation, alongside ongoing monitoring and improvement, ensuring that sustainability standards are applied across all aspects of the school environment.

The initiative covers 22 Arab countries, with plans for up to 15 schools in each country to participate in the initial pilot phase. RCQE clarified that school nominations and participation in the pilot phase are distinct from completing the accreditation process and obtaining formal recognition. This distinction is important: it means that schools can engage in the pilot to learn and improve without the pressure of immediate accreditation, while those that complete the full process will earn the GEP recognition. The RCQE Accreditation Scheme is set to be included in the GEP Tracker under Pillar 1 – Greening Schools, and on relevant country pages, providing visibility and credibility for participating schools.

The pilot phase will serve as a testing ground for the framework, allowing RCQE and its partners to refine the standards and indicators based on real-world experience. It will also help build a community of practice among schools, educators, and policymakers, fostering the exchange of knowledge and best practices. The ultimate goal is to create a sustainable education system across the Arab region, one that not only responds to climate change but also prepares students to be environmentally responsible citizens.

International and Regional Impact

How will this alignment affect the broader Arab region and beyond? The recognition by the GEP Secretariat strengthens links between regional quality assurance systems and the international Green School Quality Standard. It means that schools in Arab countries can now pursue accreditation that is both regionally relevant and globally recognized. This is particularly important for countries that may lack the resources or expertise to develop their own green school standards from scratch. By adopting the RCQE framework, they can leapfrog to international best practices while tailoring implementation to local contexts.

Moreover, the alignment supports the GEP goal of transforming at least 50% of schools in each country into green schools by 2030. With 22 Arab countries participating, the potential impact is substantial. If even a fraction of schools in each country achieve accreditation, it could catalyse a region-wide shift towards sustainability in education. The RCQE’s coordination with national education authorities and National Commissions for UNESCO ensures that the initiative is embedded in national systems, increasing the likelihood of long-term success. The inclusion of the scheme in the GEP Tracker further enhances transparency and accountability, allowing stakeholders to monitor progress and share lessons learned.

Economic and Strategic Significance

What are the economic and strategic implications of this development for Saudi Arabia and the region? At a strategic level, the recognition reinforces Saudi Arabia’s position as a leader in education quality and sustainability. The RCQE, hosted by the Kingdom, is now a key player in a global partnership that aims to green education systems worldwide. This enhances Saudi Arabia’s soft power and its ability to shape international agendas, consistent with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goal of becoming a global hub for knowledge and innovation.

Economically, green schools can deliver long-term savings through energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction. They also contribute to a healthier learning environment, which can improve student performance and well-being. By investing in green schools, Arab countries can build human capital that is better prepared for the green economy of the future. The RCQE’s framework includes indicators related to resource management and sustainability, which can help schools identify cost-saving opportunities. Furthermore, the accreditation scheme can stimulate demand for green technologies and services, creating new markets and jobs in the region.

Vision 2030 Alignment

How does this initiative connect to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030? Vision 2030 places education at the heart of the Kingdom’s transformation, with a focus on improving quality, fostering innovation, and promoting sustainability. The RCQE’s work aligns directly with these objectives. By developing a world-class accreditation scheme and securing international recognition, the Centre is helping to raise the bar for education quality across the Arab world, while also showcasing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to global sustainability goals.

Moreover, the initiative supports several Sustainable Development Goals, including Quality Education (SDG 4) and Climate Action (SDG 13). It demonstrates how Saudi Arabia is leveraging its institutions to drive regional cooperation and contribute to global challenges. As the pilot phase unfolds, the Kingdom will continue to play a convening role, bringing together stakeholders from across the Arab region and beyond. The success of this initiative will further cement Saudi Arabia’s reputation as a leader in education and sustainability, and will serve as a model for other regions. In the end, the alignment between RCQE’s accreditation scheme and UNESCO’s Green School Quality Standard is not just a technical achievement—it is a clear signal that the Arab world is ready to build a greener, more sustainable future, with Saudi Arabia at the forefront.

20 Questions

Q1. What did the GEP Secretariat confirm about RCQE’s accreditation system?

A1. The GEP Secretariat confirmed that the accreditation system implemented by the UNESCO Regional Centre for Quality and Excellence in Education (RCQE) is aligned with UNESCO’s Green School Quality Standard, as announced on October 23.

Q2. What does this alignment mean for eligible schools?

A2. Eligible schools accredited by RCQE will be recognized as GEP schools, contributing to global efforts to promote sustainability in educational institutions and gaining international recognition for their green practices.

Q3. What is the Arab Regional Network for Green School Quality?

A3. It is an initiative developed by RCQE to support sustainability, strengthen schools’ resilience to climate change, and improve the quality of education across Arab countries through a structured quality framework.

Q4. What are the four main areas covered by the quality framework?

A4. The framework covers leadership and governance; physical environment and resources; teaching and learning; and evaluation and continuous improvement, ensuring a holistic approach to school sustainability.

Q5. How many standards and indicators does the framework include?

A5. The framework is divided into 12 standards and 34 measurable indicators, providing a detailed and transparent basis for assessing school performance across all aspects of the school environment.

Q6. How does the framework assess school performance?

A6. It assesses performance through self-evaluation, external evaluation, and accreditation, alongside ongoing monitoring and improvement, to ensure that sustainability standards are applied consistently.

Q7. How many Arab countries are covered by the initiative?

A7. The initiative covers 22 Arab countries, with plans for up to 15 schools in each country to participate in the initial pilot phase, ensuring broad regional engagement.

Q8. What is the difference between nomination and accreditation?

A8. RCQE clarified that school nominations and participation in the pilot phase are distinct from completing the accreditation process and obtaining formal recognition, allowing schools to engage without immediate pressure.

Q9. Where will the RCQE Accreditation Scheme be included?

A9. The scheme is set to be included in the GEP Tracker under Pillar 1 – Greening Schools, and on relevant country pages, enhancing visibility and accountability.

Q10. What is the GEP goal for green schools by 2030?

A10. The GEP aims to transform at least 50% of schools in each country into green schools by 2030, a target that the RCQE initiative supports through its regional network.

Q11. How does RCQE coordinate with national authorities?

A11. RCQE coordinates with national education authorities, National Commissions for UNESCO, and specialized teams to support implementation, build technical capacity, and facilitate the exchange of expertise and knowledge.

Q12. What is the significance of this alignment for Saudi Arabia?

A12. It reinforces Saudi Arabia’s leadership in education quality and sustainability, enhances its soft power, and aligns with Vision 2030 goals of becoming a global hub for knowledge and innovation.

Q13. What are the economic benefits of green schools?

A13. Green schools can deliver long-term savings through energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction, while also improving student performance and well-being, and stimulating demand for green technologies.

Q14. How does the initiative support Vision 2030?

A14. It supports Vision 2030 by improving education quality, fostering innovation, promoting sustainability, and showcasing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to global sustainability goals and regional cooperation.

Q15. What are the next steps after the pilot phase?

A15. After the pilot, RCQE will refine the standards based on feedback, expand participation, and work towards accrediting more schools, ultimately contributing to the GEP’s 2030 target.

Q16. How will schools benefit from GEP recognition?

A16. GEP recognition provides international credibility, access to a global network of green schools, and opportunities for knowledge exchange, helping schools demonstrate their commitment to sustainability.

Q17. What role do National Commissions for UNESCO play?

A17. They facilitate coordination between RCQE and national education systems, support implementation, and help ensure that the initiative aligns with national priorities and international standards.

Q18. How does the framework address climate change resilience?

A18. The framework includes indicators related to physical environment and resources, teaching and learning, and governance, which together help schools build resilience to climate change impacts.

Q19. What is the GEP Tracker?

A19. The GEP Tracker is a monitoring tool that records progress towards greening education, including the RCQE Accreditation Scheme under Pillar 1, providing transparency and enabling stakeholders to track advancements.

Q20. How can schools participate in the pilot phase?

A20. Schools can be nominated through national education authorities and National Commissions for UNESCO. Participation in the pilot is distinct from accreditation, offering a preparatory step towards formal recognition.

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