From May 19 to 21, 2025, education ministry representatives from across Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia and North Africa gathered in Hanoi, Viet Nam, for a powerful 3-day GPE constituency meeting.
This wasn’t just a conference. It was a vibrant exchange of ideas, a celebration of progress and a call to transform education systems globally.
From common problems to common solutions
During the meeting, country representatives reflected on tough questions: how do we recover from learning loss? What exactly constitutes equity in the classroom? How can technology and teaching work together to unlock every learner’s potential?
Systemic issues in education like teacher shortages, inclusive education, and early childhood learning were candidly discussed by participants with a collaborative spirit. In addition to being in line with GPE’s strategy to drive system transformation and for more effective grant use, each region brought its own perspectives to the discussion that were grounded in local priorities and challenges: With a strong emphasis on enhancing the quality of teaching, Asia highlighted inclusive education and the incorporation of artificial intelligence into classrooms. These priorities reflect efforts to reach marginalized populations including youth who are out of school while also addressing the need for stronger data systems and curriculum reform.
The Middle East and North Africa focused on expanding access to digital technology and resources, improving education governance and better aligning education systems with labor market needs for skills. In many cases, these efforts are shaped by the recovery needs after conflict, gaps in infrastructure and the urgency to address learning loss. Several countries emphasized equity in education, particularly through the development of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) curriculum and digital tools that can extend learning opportunities to marginalized groups.
Eastern Europe and Central Asia focused on the importance of curriculum reform and teaching approaches that are inclusive and competency based. Teacher shortages, inadequate monitoring systems, and deteriorating school infrastructure were among the regional issues discussed. Strengthening digital transformation, gender equity and public-private collaboration emerged as vital to improving both education quality and system resilience.
The Pacific Islands raised crucial priorities like the integration of climate change education, teacher mobility within the region, and investments in technical and vocational education and training. With rising sea levels posing existential threats, partner countries underscored the urgency for education that is climate responsive. Regional assessments were also strongly suggested in order to gain a deeper comprehension of the challenges that are shared by dispersed island systems and find solutions to them. Partner nations placed an emphasis on equity and inclusion, foundational literacy and numeracy, and early childhood education across all regions. Additionally, a lot of people voiced concerns regarding the need to expand access to high-quality education, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Learning comes to life: A visit to Viet Nam’s schools
One of the most memorable moments was a field visit to a local elementary school in Hanoi.
Nam Thank Cong Primary school was selected as a strong example of how schools can deliver high quality, inclusive education through dedicated leadership, committed teachers and the effective use of available resources.
Delegates were greeted with a joyful showcase of music, art and dance, proof that learning here is not only rigorous, but joyful and creative.
In small groups, participants stepped into classrooms and witnessed firsthand what education reform looks like in Viet Nam.
Lessons supported by smart boards and digital tools, self-assured students, and well-structured instruction all blended seamlessly with warmth, creativity, and a student-centered approach to learning, demonstrating the country’s efforts to modernize its general education system. The visit wrapped up with a spirited question and answer session.
Topics ranged from language instruction and teacher support to student well-being and nutrition, highlighting a shared urgency to leave no learner behind.
