Martial Arts Open School, ICM’s annual project hosted since 2017, has been chosen by the Korean National Commission for UNESECO, to solely represent Korea as nominee for the UNESCO Prize for Girls’ and Women’s Education(GWE Prize).

The Martial Arts Open School project offers regular martial arts classes to those in developing countries and in the African region. It aims to increase youth and women’s interests in the sport, and contribute in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals such as Goal 3. Good Health and Well-being, and Goal 4. Quality Education, Goal 5. Gender Equality, etc.

As of 2019, Martial Arts Open School participants include 1,109 youth and women in total 10 countries. The project is acclaimed by its participants to have encouraged women participation in a field which has previously been perceived as a sport for men.

The GWE Prize has been awarding individuals, institutions, and organizations who have made advancements in girls’ and women’s education since 2016. Based on impact, innovation, and sustainability, two laureates will be selected by the International Jury within this September.

Read writing by participant of the 3rd Martial Arts Open School here.