wo years on from the Transforming Education Summit (TES), strides toward more inclusive, equitable, and future–ready education systems have been made. However, the journey is far from over, and reflecting on both achievements and challenges is crucial.
Progress highlights
Accelerated by the COVID–19 pandemic, countries have integrated technology into education systems. Initiatives like the African Union’s Digital Education Strategy have enabled millions of students to access quality education remotely, showing the potential of digital tools to bridge educational divides.
Countries like Finland and Canada are leading the way on inclusive education, implementing policies promoting gender equality, support for students with disabilities, and multicultural education. These efforts align with UNESCO’s principles of inclusivity, inspiring other nations to follow suit.
Education made its debut on the COP28 agenda in Dubai, highlighting the role of education in fostering climate awareness and action among young people. At the recent Schools2030 Global Forum in Bishkek, I saw first hand the progress being made in embedding sustainable practices within educational frameworks. The forum emphasized teacher leadership in promoting climate resilience and integrating climate education in curriculums.
UNESCO and UNICEF launched their first–ever global report on early childhood care and education (ECCE). This report delivers on a commitment from the World Conference on ECCE, where 155 countries pledged to ensure every child gets at least one year of free, compulsory pre–primary education. Since TES, 95% of countries have taken steps on ECCE, up from 40%. Investing in our youngest children brings the greatest social and economic returns.
The role of learning through play continues to gain traction, bolstered by the adoption of a UN–recognized International Day of Play. This approach fosters critical thinking, creativity, and emotional wellbeing among students.
A major milestone is the global pledge to provide inclusive education for refugees, ensuring they are integrated into national education systems long–term. This commitment is crucial as the number of refugees continues to rise, requiring sustainable and inclusive educational solutions.
Challenges and sticking points
Despite advancements, challenges remain. One notable issue is the persistent inequality in education financing. While some nations have increased investment, others struggle with limited budgets, exacerbating disparities. Innovative financing mechanisms and international support are essential to fulfill educational commitments.
A pressing issue is the global teacher crisis, with a shortfall of 44 million teachers worldwide. This shortage impacts the quality of education, particularly in underserved regions. Addressing this crisis requires efforts to recruit, train, and retain teachers. Ongoing professional development is vital to ensure educators are equipped to deliver high quality education.
Looking forward
To sustain and accelerate progress, a holistic approach addressing both successes and hurdles is imperative. Collaborative efforts, knowledge sharing, and leveraging technology can help overcome existing challenges. As we reflect on progress since the 2022 summit, let us reaffirm our commitment to transforming education for all learners, wherever they are in the world.”
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Despite progress, more to be done on transforming education
June 25, 2024
To sustain and accelerate progress, a holistic approach addressing both successes and hurdles is imperative, writes Euan Wilmshurst.
T
wo years on from the Transforming Education Summit (TES), strides toward more inclusive, equitable, and future–ready education systems have been made. However, the journey is far from over, and reflecting on both achievements and challenges is crucial.
Progress highlights
Accelerated by the COVID–19 pandemic, countries have integrated technology into education systems. Initiatives like the African Union’s Digital Education Strategy have enabled millions of students to access quality education remotely, showing the potential of digital tools to bridge educational divides.
Countries like Finland and Canada are leading the way on inclusive education, implementing policies promoting gender equality, support for students with disabilities, and multicultural education. These efforts align with UNESCO’s principles of inclusivity, inspiring other nations to follow suit.
Education made its debut on the COP28 agenda in Dubai, highlighting the role of education in fostering climate awareness and action among young people. At the recent Schools2030 Global Forum in Bishkek, I saw first hand the progress being made in embedding sustainable practices within educational frameworks. The forum emphasized teacher leadership in promoting climate resilience and integrating climate education in curriculums.
UNESCO and UNICEF launched their first–ever global report on early childhood care and education (ECCE). This report delivers on a commitment from the World Conference on ECCE, where 155 countries pledged to ensure every child gets at least one year of free, compulsory pre–primary education. Since TES, 95% of countries have taken steps on ECCE, up from 40%. Investing in our youngest children brings the greatest social and economic returns.
The role of learning through play continues to gain traction, bolstered by the adoption of a UN–recognized International Day of Play. This approach fosters critical thinking, creativity, and emotional wellbeing among students.
A major milestone is the global pledge to provide inclusive education for refugees, ensuring they are integrated into national education systems long–term. This commitment is crucial as the number of refugees continues to rise, requiring sustainable and inclusive educational solutions.
Challenges and sticking points
Despite advancements, challenges remain. One notable issue is the persistent inequality in education financing. While some nations have increased investment, others struggle with limited budgets, exacerbating disparities. Innovative financing mechanisms and international support are essential to fulfill educational commitments.
A pressing issue is the global teacher crisis, with a shortfall of 44 million teachers worldwide. This shortage impacts the quality of education, particularly in underserved regions. Addressing this crisis requires efforts to recruit, train, and retain teachers. Ongoing professional development is vital to ensure educators are equipped to deliver high quality education.
Looking forward
To sustain and accelerate progress, a holistic approach addressing both successes and hurdles is imperative. Collaborative efforts, knowledge sharing, and leveraging technology can help overcome existing challenges. As we reflect on progress since the 2022 summit, let us reaffirm our commitment to transforming education for all learners, wherever they are in the world.”
