GPF Vice President for Education Dr. Tony Devine speaking at the Global Peace Leadership Conference Indo-Pacific 2023
Education systems worldwide are at a critical juncture. As Tony Devine, Vice President of Education at the Global Peace Foundation, emphasized, the global pandemic has made it clear that education must adapt to digital readiness and ensure equitable access to quality education for all students. Beyond academic achievement, students must develop the skills and agency to contribute to flourishing societies. This need for transformation aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #4: Quality Education, which promotes inclusive and equitable education and lifelong learning opportunities for all. As we reimagine education for the future, it’s essential to prepare students not only for exams but also for the challenges of life in a rapidly changing world.
The Importance of a Holistic Education Approach
A holistic education approach transcends the traditional focus on academic subjects, integrating emotional, social, and ethical development into the learning process. Schools must produce well-rounded individuals who are not only academically capable but also equipped with the emotional intelligence and ethical reasoning needed to thrive in modern societies. Initiatives such as Character.org, which focuses on fostering character education and ethical development, have shown that social-emotional learning is just as critical as academic knowledge. For example, Character.org’s projects emphasize building character and emotional intelligence, fostering a new generation of learners who are compassionate, ethical, and ready to engage in global problem-solving. (Global Peace Foundation)
Character.org moderator Dara Feldman welcomes panelists and participants to the International Character Summit in Washington, DC.
This holistic approach also contributes directly to peacebuilding. As Tony Devine points out, “Education should not only focus on academic excellence but also on developing the character and values of students, preparing them to be responsible global citizens.” Holistic development paves the way for employment that values collaboration, teamwork, and ethical practices. This, in turn, fuels economic growth, social stability, and the creation of corruption-free societies. Through education, we create the foundation for sustained peace and development. (Global Peace Foundation)
The Current State of Education
Traditional education systems worldwide are struggling to meet the demands of the 21st century. Issues such as outdated curricula, insufficient teacher training, and unequal access to quality education are common, particularly in underdeveloped regions. These challenges became even more pronounced during the global pandemic, as connectivity gaps and infrastructure weaknesses came to light. Access to technology is now a fundamental requirement for modern education, and without it, students will be unable to participate fully in the learning process. As Tony Devine has stated, “We must innovate and adapt our education systems to meet the evolving needs of our societies and economies.” The future of education hinges on our ability to create inclusive, digitally-enabled learning environments.
Curriculum Reform
Dr. Suzanne Dillon, Chair of OECD’s The Future of Education and Skills 2030 speaking at the 2019 Global Peace Convention
Curriculum reform must move beyond rote memorization to prioritize critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. The Future of Education and Skills 2030 project by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) underscores the importance of future-oriented learning, preparing students to thrive in an unpredictable world marked by rapid technological and societal changes. This approach emphasizes not only academic mastery but also creativity, empathy, and collaboration, which are critical for success in both personal and professional life.
Interdisciplinary learning, real-world applications, and emotional intelligence should be central components of modern curricula. The Global Goals Curriculum 2030 takes this further by aligning educational content with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Integrating global citizenship and sustainability into education encourages students to engage with pressing global issues, equipping them to contribute meaningfully to society. As Tony Devine notes, “We need to equip students with the skills to think critically and solve complex problems, preparing them for the challenges of the future.” (Global Peace Foundation)
Teacher Training and Support
As we rethink education for the 21st century, teachers must also undergo transformation. The role of teachers is evolving from that of knowledge transmitters to designers of learning environments, as noted by Lynn Payne, a panelist from the OECD Education 2030 project. Teachers need to be empowered with the tools and training necessary to foster creativity, empathy, and collaboration in their students. This means providing continuous professional development that encourages experimentation, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace uncertainty.
Furthermore, teachers must have access to the resources they need to innovate in their classrooms. This includes integrating technology effectively, as highlighted by Character.org, which has shown that teachers who emphasize character and emotional development can create more engaging, personalized learning environments. Tony Devine adds, “Technology, when used effectively, can transform education and make learning more engaging and accessible.” Continuous support, peer collaboration, and digital literacy training are essential for teachers to thrive in the modern education landscape.
Community and Stakeholder Engagement
Engaging the community in the education process is crucial to ensure that reforms are sustainable and inclusive. In regions with limited resources, collaboration between parents, educators, local businesses, and governments can make the difference in providing students with the tools they need to succeed.
Mr. Indimuli Kahi, chairman of the Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association
For example, in Kenya, as mentioned by Indimuli Kahi, chairman of the Kenya Secondary Schools Heads Association, the pandemic exposed the critical need for improved connectivity and infrastructure to support hybrid learning. However, true transformation requires more than just technology; it requires a shift in policy and community involvement to create resilient education systems. By fostering partnerships with local stakeholders, schools can build networks of support that extend beyond the classroom, ensuring that students benefit from holistic, community-centered education.
Use of Technology
Technology has become an indispensable tool for creating personalized, interactive learning environments that meet the diverse needs of today’s students. Efforts to bridge the digital divide are critical for ensuring that all students, regardless of their geographic location, have access to quality education.
Samantha O’Riordan, Program Officer at International Telecommunication Union (ITU), United Nations
In addition to addressing the infrastructure gaps, technology must be used thoughtfully to enhance learning. Adaptive learning platforms and digital tools can create tailored educational experiences, allowing students to learn at their own pace. However, as Samantha O’Riordan from ITU points out, the use of technology in education must be paired with policies that ensure safe and equitable access. Schools must implement data security measures and promote responsible digital citizenship to protect students and teachers from potential online threats. Tony Devine emphasizes, “When used effectively, technology has the power to transform education, making learning more engaging and accessible to all.” (Global Peace Foundation)
Challenges and Solutions
While the potential benefits of transforming education systems are clear, significant challenges must be overcome. As highlighted by Indimuli Kahi in the context of Kenya, issues such as inadequate infrastructure, lack of teacher training, and insufficient policy frameworks present significant obstacles. The shift to online learning during the pandemic exposed these vulnerabilities, especially in underserved regions, where access to technology remains limited.
Solutions lie in evidence-based policy advocacy and cross-sector collaboration. Governments and education systems need to prioritize digital infrastructure, ensuring that all students, particularly those in rural and remote areas, have access to the internet and digital devices. Another key aspect is changing the mindset around education reform. Resistance to change, whether from policymakers, educators, or communities, can be addressed by demonstrating the benefits of holistic, technology-driven learning environments. Engaging stakeholders in the reform process, particularly through evidence-based research and global case studies, can help build the necessary momentum for long-term transformation.
Conclusion
At Global Peace Foundation, we know that transforming national education systems is no longer an option; it is imperative for the future. The path forward lies in holistic development, technological integration, and global collaboration. By addressing the key challenges—such as infrastructure gaps, outdated curricula, and resistance to change—education systems can evolve to meet the needs of today’s students. As highlighted by the OECD Education 2030 project, the future of learning depends on critical thinking, creativity, and global citizenship.
The insights shared by global initiatives like Character.org and the Global Goals Curriculum 2030 provide insights into how education can contribute to sustainable development, economic growth, and social stability. By embracing these innovative practices and aligning educational reforms with the UN SDGs, we can create a brighter future for students worldwide. Ultimately, the transformation of education systems is about uplifting educators and preparing students not only for exams but for life—empowering them to become the global citizens and leaders of tomorrow.
