The Department of Basic Education (DBE) and the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) hosted the first G20 Education Working Group (EdWG) meeting virtually from 12 to 13 February 2025. The event, held at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), was co-chaired by Dr. SNP Sishi and Mr. HM Mweli, Directors-General of Higher Education and Training and Basic Education, respectively.
The opening remarks were delivered by the South African Minister of Basic Education, Hon. Ms. Siviwe Gwarube, MP, and the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Hon. Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane, MP. The Ministers emphasised the importance of aligning with South Africa’s overarching G20 theme and announced that the EdWG will convene its work under the theme “Educational Professionals for Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability,”.
The meeting provided a platform for G20 members, invited guest countries, and international organizations to engage and build consensus on the priorities proposed by South Africa for the EdWG during its presidency. These priorities include:
- Quality Foundational Learning: Highlighting the role of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) in enhancing foundational learning outcomes.
- Mutual Recognition of Qualifications: Promoting international recognition of educational qualifications to support global mobility.
- Education Professional Development: Empowering educators to adapt to evolving educational challenges and global changes.
To support these priorities, the EdWG has partnered with key knowledge organizations:
- UNICEF: Supporting foundational learning and ECCE initiatives.
- UNESCO: Facilitating mutual recognition of qualifications.
- OECD: Guiding professional development strategies for educators.
The proposed priorities received strong support from G20 members, international organizations, knowledge partners, and guest countries. This initial meeting marks the beginning of a series of planned engagements, both virtual and in-person, throughout the year.
The next G20 EdWG meeting will take place in person from 27 to 29 May 2025 in Pilanesberg, North West. The outcomes from these technical meetings will shape discussions at the G20 Education Ministers’ meeting and contribute to a formal Working Group declaration in October 2025.
