Category II Centers under UNESCO are specialized institutions focused on research, consultancy, and training. They are technically affiliated with one of UNESCO’s three sectors: science, education, or culture. These centers serve as important extensions for delivering UNESCO’s programs and supporting its profile among Member States.
UNESCO’s Category II Centers dedicated to education contribute to one or more priority areas within the sector, such as teacher development, literacy, technical education, and educational planning.
In addition to these roles, Category II Centers provide opportunities to showcase the qualifications, knowledge, and specialized expertise of Member States. They also facilitate regional communication and act as hubs for expertise and resources in various educational fields.
These centers are established through formal agreements between UNESCO and the proposing countries. Such agreements are approved by UNESCO’s General Conference, based on a feasibility study that assesses the host country’s readiness, experience in the center’s area of work, and its capacity to support the center.
Category II Centers enjoy financial and administrative independence from both UNESCO and the host country. However, they operate to implement and support UNESCO’s programs within their area of specialization. In terms of scope, these centers are considered regional in nature, even though their operational funding comes from the host country.
Oversight of these centers is carried out by governing boards chaired by the Minister of Education of the host country, with membership including Ministers of Education from other countries within the center’s scope, as well as a number of local and international experts.
