Sinead McLaughlin hails Derry's involvement in UNESCO network and Virtual Learning City Festival

The SDLP economy spokesperson said: "The Derry City and Strabane council area has a very young population, so it makes sense to build the skills base of our people - young and old.

"The future of our city and region is based on our skills development - including the expansion of university provision and the building of strong vocational skills through apprenticeships and college courses," she said.

She was responding to the announcement by Derry City and Strabane District Council that Derry is to host the world's first Virtual Learning City Festival, celebrating lifelong learning experiences across the city and district, on July 1 and 2.

"It is very important that the concept of a 'learning city' becomes more than just a phrase and takes on real meaning, and benefit for all our people.

"I hope that this initiative will be the start of a major promotion of the city as a centre of learning and education.

“Derry has much to celebrate in terms of our people, history and contribution to education and culture. Let's make sure more near and far are aware of this," said Mrs. McLaughlin.