Equitable higher education for global progress
This track explores how universities can act as catalysts for innovation and change amid global inequalities, environmental crises and economic challenges.
Global education leaders, policymakers and innovators will convene to discuss what leadership for sustainability looks like in 2026, the future skills needed for a sustainable world, and how to build successful alliances with government and industry to deliver them.
Discussion topics
Our speakers are senior decision-makers and experts in education, gender and inequality around the world, and sessions in this track are hosted by experts in the field.
With a focus on gender parity in higher education and widening participation for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, these sessions provide a space to build alliances that take action to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to contribute to economic, social and environmental progress – creating a more resilient, inclusive and sustainable future.
Speakers include
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A message from our track hosts and partner
"I am hosting this track because education sits at the heart of addressing every sustainable development challenge and its possible solutions. Without education and training, we are neither able to understand nor influence the world around us. I am looking forward to the conversations with other global academics who connect policy, practice and lived experience in ways that lead to real-world change."
Charles Hopkins
Unesco Co-Chair in Reorienting Education towards Sustainability
York University
“I am hosting this track because education is where inequalities can be transformed into diverse strengths and where differing perspectives become pluralistic views. I am especially looking forward to the space this congress creates for cross-disciplinary and cross-sectoral dialogue about how to positively shape learning systems and create the futures we want across different regions of the world.”
Katrin Kohl
Unesco Co-Chair in Reorienting Education towards Sustainability
York University
"We are proud to serve as education transformation partner for the 'education, gender and inequality' track, aligning with our Strategic Plan 2025–2031 themed “Education Futures”. This plan drives us to nurture future-ready educators, advance impactful research, and contribute to sustainable development, including gender equality and reduced inequalities. I eagerly anticipate sharing our innovations, building global partnerships, and co-creating inclusive solutions in Jakarta this June."
Professor John Chi-Kin Lee
President
The Education University of Hong Kong