The third annual gathering has attracted participants from over 30 countries, the organizers say

The 3rd International Forum of Ministers of Education, 'Shaping the Future', officially opened on Wednesday in the Russian city of Kazan, in Tatarstan, bringing together high-level delegations from more than 30 countries for two days of dialogue and exchange.

The forum has drawn the participation of education ministers and officials from nations such as the UAE, Belarus, Abkhazia, South Ossetia, Myanmar, Laos, the Central African Republic, Cameroon, Burkina Faso, Zimbabwe, and others.

This year's agenda focuses on global challenges and trends in education, including digital transformation, the role of AI and online learning, inclusive education, education quality and equity, and the evolving role of teachers in modern society. Participants will also explore ways to advance national education systems and boost international cooperation.

The forum is a comprehensive platform for collaboration, exchange, and future-focused strategy in the face of the rapid transformation of global education systems.

Addressing the forum, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that ensuring access to modern, high-quality education is a common goal for participants of the event.

"This is a fundamental condition for social justice, reducing poverty and inequality, and improving the quality of life in our countries," he said in a video address.

Speaking on the historical role of educators, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov noted that this forum takes place in the year of the 80th anniversary of Victory in World War II.

"Teachers made a vital contribution to that victory, continuing their duties in the harshest wartime conditions and setting an example of resilience and courage," Lavrov said.

Russian Education Minister Sergey Kravtsov, who moderated the opening session, emphasized the forum's regional significance, saying the Russian education system "continues to grow stronger despite unjustified pressure." He expressed readiness to share Russia's experience with international guests.

Presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky highlighted the connection between education and national sovereignty, saying the quality of "school teaching either helps children to grow up to be independent citizens of a sovereign country, or let their minds be filled with the knowledge instilled by other nations."

Speaking at the opening session, Myanmar's education minister, Nyunt Pe, said Russia has consistently supported his country in reforming the education system. He added that he hopes to learn about digital transformation in education, as well as sharing experiences with representatives of ministries from other countries.

Zeljka Stojicic, the minister of education and culture of Bosnia and Herzegovina, said the forum provides an opportunity to learn from colleagues' experiences regarding the effective development of the education system.

(RT.com)