Riyadh Symposium Explores Youth and Education Quality

Riyadh, August 15, 2026 — The UNESCO Regional Center for Quality and Excellence in Education, in cooperation with Yemen’s Ministry of Education, convened an international symposium today titled “Different Contexts, Shared Aspirations: Youth Reimagining Quality and Excellence in Education.” The event, held in Riyadh, gathered youth, education policymakers, experts, researchers, and representatives from educational, youth, and international organizations to explore the future of education quality and excellence.

Context and Background

The symposium aimed to strengthen dialogue among youth, education policymakers, and experts, focusing on developing education systems that respect diverse economic, social, cultural, and geographical contexts while upholding principles of equity, quality, and equal opportunities. This initiative underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering global educational collaboration and its leadership in regional development, aligned with Vision 2030’s goal of building a vibrant society with empowered youth.

Key Details

Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Mudaires, Director-General of the Center, emphasized the importance of involving youth in education policymaking, noting their shared aspirations for quality education, equal opportunities, safe learning environments, and skills for the future. Yemen’s Minister of Education, Dr. Adel Al-Abbadi, praised the cooperation with the center and Saudi Arabia’s support for Yemen’s education sector, highlighting the role of youth in building societies. The symposium addressed critical topics including equity in educational opportunities, future skills, transitions from education to employment and entrepreneurship, education for peace and sustainable development, education quality in crisis contexts, digital transformation, and responsible AI use.

Implications and Impact

The symposium’s outcomes are expected to inform regional education policies, promoting inclusive and resilient education systems. By engaging youth directly, the initiative enhances their agency in shaping their own futures, crucial for stability and prosperity in the region. Saudi Arabia’s hosting of such dialogues reinforces its position as a hub for innovation and diplomacy, fostering international cooperation in education.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This symposium directly contributes to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by promoting quality education as a cornerstone of human capital development. By empowering youth and fostering global partnerships, the Kingdom is building a knowledge-based economy, nurturing future leaders, and enhancing its global standing as a beacon of progress and collaboration.

20 Questions

Q1. What was the title of the symposium held in Riyadh?

A1. The symposium was titled “Different Contexts, Shared Aspirations: Youth Reimagining Quality and Excellence in Education.” It aimed to explore the future of education quality and excellence from the perspective of youth, reflecting a shared commitment across different contexts.

Q2. Who organized the international symposium?

A2. The symposium was organized by the UNESCO Regional Center for Quality and Excellence in Education, in cooperation with Yemen’s Ministry of Education. This collaboration highlights the center’s regional role and Saudi Arabia’s support for educational development.

Q3. Where and when did the symposium take place?

A3. The symposium took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on August 15, 2026. Riyadh’s hosting underscores the Kingdom’s dedication to fostering international dialogue and advancing educational excellence in the region.

Q4. Who participated in the symposium?

A4. Participants included youth, education policymakers, experts, researchers, and representatives from educational and youth institutions, as well as international and regional organizations. This diverse participation ensured a comprehensive exchange of ideas and perspectives.

Q5. What was the main objective of the symposium?

A5. The main objective was to explore the future of quality and excellence in education and strengthen dialogue among youth, education policymakers, and experts. It sought to develop education systems that are equitable and considerate of diverse contexts.

Q6. Who is the Director-General of the UNESCO Regional Center?

A6. Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Mudaires is the Director-General of the UNESCO Regional Center for Quality and Excellence in Education. He emphasized the importance of involving youth in education policymaking, recognizing their aspirations for quality and equitable education.

Q7. What did Dr. Al-Mudaires emphasize about youth involvement?

A7. Dr. Al-Mudaires stressed that youth share aspirations for quality education, equal opportunities, safe learning environments, and skills that prepare them for the future. Involving them in policymaking is vital for shaping education systems that meet their needs.

Q8. Who is Yemen’s Minister of Education?

A8. Yemen’s Minister of Education is Dr. Adel Al-Abbadi. He underscored the important role of youth in building societies and commended the cooperation with the center and Saudi Arabia’s support for Yemen’s education sector.

Q9. What role did Yemen’s Minister highlight for youth?

A9. Dr. Al-Abbadi highlighted that youth play a crucial role in building societies. He praised the partnership with the center and Saudi Arabia’s support, which aids Yemen in strengthening its education system despite challenges.

Q10. What topics were discussed at the symposium?

A10. Topics included equity in educational opportunities, future skills, transitions from education to employment and entrepreneurship, education for peace and sustainable development, education quality in crisis contexts, digital transformation, and responsible use of artificial intelligence.

Q11. How does the symposium relate to Vision 2030?

A11. The symposium aligns with Vision 2030 by promoting quality education as a foundation for human capital development. It supports building a knowledge-based economy and nurturing future leaders, contributing to the Kingdom’s long-term goals.

Q12. What is the significance of Saudi Arabia hosting this symposium?

A12. Hosting the symposium demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s commitment to global education diplomacy and its leadership in regional development. It reinforces the Kingdom’s position as a hub for innovation and collaboration, in line with Vision 2030.

Q13. How will youth benefit from the symposium’s outcomes?

A13. Youth benefit by having their voices heard in education policymaking, leading to systems that better address their needs. This empowers them to become active contributors to society, enhancing their future prospects and societal development.

Q14. What is the regional impact of the symposium?

A14. The symposium’s outcomes are expected to inform regional education policies, promoting inclusive and resilient education systems. By engaging youth, it enhances their agency, contributing to regional stability and prosperity, and fostering cooperation.

Q15. What role does digital transformation play in the discussions?

A15. Digital transformation was a key topic, focusing on integrating technology into education, including the responsible use of AI. This is crucial for preparing students for a digital future and enhancing learning outcomes.

Q16. How does the symposium address education in crisis contexts?

A16. The symposium discussed education quality in crisis contexts, emphasizing the need for resilient systems that ensure continued learning. This is particularly relevant for countries like Yemen, where Saudi support helps sustain education.

Q17. What is the role of international organizations in the symposium?

A17. International organizations participated to share expertise and best practices, fostering collaborative efforts to improve education quality globally. Their involvement underscores the importance of partnerships in education development.

Q18. How does the symposium promote entrepreneurship among youth?

A18. By discussing the transition from education to employment and entrepreneurship, the symposium aims to equip youth with skills and mindsets for innovation and job creation, aligning with Vision 2030’s economic diversification goals.

Q19. What is the expected outcome for education policymakers?

A19. Policymakers gain insights from youth perspectives and expert input, enabling them to design more effective and inclusive education strategies. This can lead to improved education systems that better prepare students for future challenges.

Q20. How does this symposium contribute to global education goals?

A20. The symposium contributes to global education goals by promoting quality, equity, and lifelong learning, aligning with UNESCO’s agenda. It reinforces Saudi Arabia’s commitment to international cooperation and sustainable development.

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