South Africa is taking part in the Education World Forum (EWF) in London, with Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister Nomusa Dube-Ncube representing the country at one of the world’s largest gatherings of education leaders.
The forum, taking place from 17 to 20 May 2026, brings together education and training ministers from over 130 countries, alongside multilateral organisations and global partners to discuss the future of education.
A Global Platform for Education Reform
This year’s Education World Forum is themed “Educating for a Shared Future: Peace, Planet, Purpose and Pathways”.
It focuses on how education systems can be reimagined to address global challenges while supporting long-term economic growth, inclusion, and sustainability.
The theme reflects a shared international view that education plays a central role in building resilient societies and unlocking opportunities for future generations.
South Africa’s Education Priorities
South Africa’s participation is aligned with key national priorities, including addressing youth unemployment through education pathways that prepare work-ready and entrepreneurial graduates.
The delegation is also highlighting efforts to strengthen alignment with the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) by integrating:
- Artificial intelligence skills
- Digital literacy
- Green economy competencies
These initiatives are being implemented across universities, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, and community learning institutions.
Expanding Access and Reducing Inequality
Improving access to education and reducing structural inequality remain central to the country’s agenda.
Key programmes include:
- National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)
- Comprehensive Student Funding Model
- Repositioning of TVET colleges as institutions of first choice
These initiatives aim to widen participation and support more inclusive access to higher education.
Promoting Entrepreneurship and Skills Development
The delegation is also showcasing entrepreneurship as a driver of economic inclusion.
This includes initiatives such as the Entrepreneurship Development in Higher Education (EDHE) programme and skills development linked to the Just Energy Transition, supporting innovation and job creation.
High-level Engagement at EWF
During the forum, Deputy Minister Dube-Ncube is expected to take part in plenary discussions, bilateral meetings and multilateral engagements.
South Africa will also advocate for Global South priorities, including:
- Decolonised curricula
- Multilingual artificial intelligence development
- Equitable education financing
South Africa’s Global Education Perspective
Speaking ahead of the forum, Dube-Ncube said South Africa would engage as an active contributor to global education reform.
“South Africa goes to EWF not as an observer, but as a nation actively rebuilding an education system from the legacy of apartheid, adapting to a fast-changing world, while striving to ensure no young person is left behind.”
Dube-Ncube, Deputy Minister
