Kazakhstan’s youth help shape the future of education: UNESCO holds national consultation on Education Beyond 2030

Held in a hybrid format, the consultation brought together young people to discuss the future of education and learning beyond 2030.

As 2030 approaches, the international community is considering the future direction of the global education agenda. Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) sets global commitments for inclusive and equitable quality education, while UNESCO's Education for Sustainable Development: Towards achieving the SDGs (ESD for 2030) promotes the integration of sustainable development principles into education. As the current agenda approaches its 2030 horizon, UNESCO has launched the global Education Beyond 2030 consultation process to identify priorities for education and learning beyond 2030 in light of emerging social, environmental and technological challenges.

Meaningful youth participation is a key principle of this process. Together with the SDG 4 Youth & Student Network, UNESCO is conducting global youth and student consultations with young people aged 11 to 30 to ensure that their perspectives, experiences and aspirations are reflected in shaping the future education agenda.

The national consultation in Kazakhstan brought together participants from different age groups, youth organizations and UNESCO Clubs, including young people with disabilities and those from vulnerable and underrepresented communities. Members of the UN Youth Advisory Board in Kazakhstan also supported the interactive sessions, helping facilitate group discussions and promote active youth participation.