Renewing the Social Contract for Education

UNESCO

Abstract

The Forum on the Futures of Education 2024, held in Suwon, Korea, marks a new phase in UNESCO’s global education efforts. It acknowledges that meeting current 2030 education goals is critical but insufficient to address complex global challenges such as inequality, environmental crises, and technological change. The forum stresses the urgent need to transform education systems beyond traditional models to promote equity, sustainability, and adaptability. Addressing past educational inequalities, fostering innovation, and including diverse voices are essential. The event also highlights the Republic of Korea’s example in education transformation and calls for sustained, long-term policy frameworks to support this global vision.

Relevance to Scouting

Scouting is fundamentally about education beyond the classroom, developing young people’s skills, values, and leadership to face future challenges. The Forum’s focus on transforming education to be more inclusive, sustainable, and adaptive aligns closely with Scouting’s mission to empower youth to be responsible global citizens. By embracing innovation and diverse perspectives, Scouting can play a vital role in shaping future-ready learners who contribute to just and resilient communities. Furthermore, Scouting’s emphasis on outdoor education and environmental stewardship directly supports the Forum’s call to address environmental crises through education.