The Education World Forum (EWF) is the world’s largest gathering of education and skills ministers. The event provides excellent networking and peer learning opportunities for ministers from around the world to discuss the most pressing issues in the education space.

By coming together to exchange diverse perspectives and experiences, and explore what works and what doesn’t in various contexts, we can discover new solutions, forge impactful partnerships and unlock fresh opportunities, building stronger, bolder and better education that serves our globally interconnected communities.

The Education World Forum 2025 will explore a wide spectrum of critical issues surrounding the development of inclusive, responsive and resilient education systems that drive equitable and sustainable socio-economic growth. It will facilitate reflection on innovative solutions to tackle the pressing global challenges we face today, with a focus on leveraging technology, public-private partnerships and international collaboration.

The event will offer a wealth of opportunities for constructive discussion on these issues through a series of plenary and focused thematic sessions, all organised around five key overarching agenda themes.

Stability

Nurseries, schools, colleges and universities provide safe spaces where individuals can express ideas, explore new concepts, develop their character and learn. Education equips people with the knowledge, skills and competencies necessary to navigate life’s challenges, fostering both personal and socio-economic growth. At the societal level, education strengthens social cohesion by nurturing shared values, mutual understanding and collaboration. On a global scale, education helps to create interconnected societies that can collectively address common challenges, driving long-term global stability.

Equity

Ensuring that every individual has access to quality learning opportunities is fundamental to fostering inclusive and just societies. While developing strategies, policies and actions to promote equitable access to education can be complex, these efforts are crucial for driving meaningful transformation. To effectively tackle pressing global challenges, such as climate change and humanitarian crises, we must build education systems that empower all segments of society, making education for all a key part of the solution.

Quality

The quality of education is strongly influenced by value judgements about its ultimate purpose. To meet the diverse needs of individuals and communities, a holistic approach that incorporates different perspectives is essential. Focusing too narrowly on economic growth can limit education’s ability to foster personal development. Prioritising STEM education at the expense of the arts risks undermining the importance of creativity and critical thinking. While standardised curricula and external regulations can help to create a common understanding of education, it is crucial to ensure they do not stifle innovation and adaptability, which are necessary for meeting evolving needs.

Innovation

The world is evolving at an unprecedented pace and, to keep up, we must foster a culture of innovation in learning and education. Embracing innovation not only allows us to respond effectively to change, but also empowers us to uncover new and better pathways for progress. Innovation extends beyond the integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) – it also requires rethinking traditional educational structures, practices and mindsets. By reshaping education systems to be adaptable, forward-thinking and responsive, we can ensure they are well equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

Growth

Learning is a powerful driver of growth, both individually and collectively. It transforms individuals by broadening their knowledge, enhancing their skills and fostering personal development. On a collective level, education strengthens human capital, promotes social cohesion and drives economic growth by creating a skilled workforce that boosts productivity and innovation. If social cohesion, well-being and economic success represent the vision, then education policy and strategy build the path to get there.