In response to urgent global challenges and marking the half-way point of the Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) for 2030 framework, the Conference will generate renewed momentum for ESD and provide strategic guidance for the next five years. 

Hosted by UNESCO and the Government of Kenya on 13–15 January 2027, it will gather ministers, youth leaders and stakeholders from around the world for strategic dialogue. 

Education for Sustainable Development is central to building inclusive, equitable, just and sustainable societies by empowering learners of all ages with the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes needed to address interconnected global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, inequality and conflict. 

The World Conference will highlight emerging trends such as the integration of green skills, the digital transformation of education, and the role of social-emotional learning in fostering holistic sustainability approaches.

Programme and participation

The Conference will bring together Ministers of Education and other high-level representatives, alongside stakeholders from government, civil society, academia, the private sector and international partners. A ministerial roundtable will provide space for strategic policy dialogue. Youth participation will be central to the Conference, ensuring that young people help shape discussions and outcomes. 

The Conference will be in-person through a series of plenary and parallel sessions, with the option of livestream of plenary sessions to enable broader participation (to be confirmed).

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