To mark World Bicycle Day, celebrated on June 3, Peace and Sport, partner of the International Cycling Union (UCI), is joining in the celebrations by promoting cycling as a vehicle for education.
Beyond this symbolic day, the UCI and Peace and Sport reaffirm their commitment to advancing cycling’s contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Through the promotion of the “Ride & Learn” program, the two organizations demonstrate in a concrete way that a structured, supervised sport focused on human values possesses the unique power to bring about lasting change in individual and collective trajectories.
Hands-on workshops for youth at the World Cycling Centre in the presence of Champion of Peace Marlène Nidecker and Peace and Sport CEO, Jean-Jérôme Perrin-Mortier
To mark this day in a meaningful way, the UCI World Cycling Centre (UCI WCC) and Peace and Sport organized special activities for schools in the region. On this occasion, students had the opportunity to explore the UCI WCC’s pump track and participate in a hands-on “Ride & Learn” workshop.
This learning method was being implemented on the ground with the participation of Marlène Nidecker, Champion for Peace and Olympic medalist. Her involvement highlights the unique ability of athletes to inspire and empower younger generations through the transmission of life skils and peace values.
Marlène Nidecker : “Sport is much more than a form of entertainment. It is also a potential catalyst for promoting education and culture, beyond its essential role in human development.”
A 4-year partnership to structure on-the-ground impact
The alliance between the UCI and Peace and Sport is based on a shared vision: sport must go beyond the mere pursuit of performance to become a lever for learning and social cohesion. Strengthened by the signing of a four-year strategic partnership in 2024, this collaboration aims to roll out on-the-ground programs where the need for educational tools and social peacebuilding is greatest.
By combining the technical expertise of the international federation with Peace and Sport’s educational approach, the two institutions are committed to building sustainable initiatives capable of strengthening the autonomy of local organizations and educators.
About “Ride & Learn”:
The operational heart of this alliance is embodied in the joint “Ride & Learn” program. This pioneering initiative uses cycling as a school of life for younger generations.
The program is structured around several key pillars:
- Adapting the methodology: Integrating the values of respect, cooperation, and self-control into the very practice of cycling.
- Training facilitators: Supporting local educators to transform each cycling session into a space for civic learning and safe dialogue.
- Access to education: Using bicycles as a means of transportation to facilitate access to educational centers and strengthen the inclusion of the most vulnerable youth.
