Education for Equity, Mental Health, and Innovation: Reimagining Learning for a Changing World
Education is more than just academics—it is a foundation for peacebuilding, mental health, gender equity, and sustainable development. However, current education systems often fail to meet the diverse needs of learners, particularly in crisis-affected regions, underfunded schools, and marginalized communities. How can we rethink education to ensure inclusivity, mental well-being, and skills for the future?
This discussion will explore key challenges and innovations in education, including the integration of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) as a mental health intervention, expanding access to STEM for girls, and leveraging digital technologies for inclusive learning. We will also discuss how to mobilize more philanthropic investment in education, particularly in Africa, where half of the world’s youth will live by 2030. Additionally, participants will examine how AI and digital education solutions can help reach deaf learners, marginalized youth, and communities facing conflict and instability, including Afghanistan.
Key Questions:How can mental health be embedded into education systems, and what role does SEL play in creating healthier learning environments?
How do we expand access to STEM education for girls and other underrepresented learners?
What does AI mean for the future of teaching and learning, and how can it be used to close education gaps rather than widen them?
How can philanthropy and policy reforms help scale education investment, particularly in Africa and other underserved regions?
How can teacher training, participatory education models, and youth-led initiatives contribute to a more democratic, sustainable future?
This interactive discussion group will bring together educators, funders, policymakers, and advocates to explore solutions that make education more inclusive, sustainable, and impactful in a rapidly changing world.
Session Co-Leaders:
Chidinma Ibemere is Parliamentary Advocacy Officer for Education at Results UK, advancing global education policy through parliamentary engagement.
Clara Mlemba is Lead Podcast Host at Adilisha, promoting STEM education and gender inclusion through science communication.
Francesca Raoelison is Founder and Executive Director of Omena, empowering youth through emotional education and social impact.
Freshta Karim is Founder of Charmaghz, creating educational opportunities for Afghan children through mobile libraries.
Michelle Zhang is Senior Manager at the Yidan Prize Foundation, supporting global changemakers in education innovation.
Titus Syengo is Executive Director at TaRL Africa, scaling proven approaches to improve foundational learning.
Nancy Abraham Sumari is the Executive Director of The Jenga Hub, a tech nonprofit transforming education for underserved communities in Tanzania.