Education in Turbulent Times
Building Resilience in the Context of the Polycrisis
In a world shaped by interconnected crises such as armed conflicts, climate change, pandemics, economic uncertainty, migration and demographic change, education stands at a crossroads. The RECI Education Forum is an innovative day of reflection that brings together visionary thinkers, field practitioners, policymakers, and researchers to explore new approaches to the overlapping challenges of our time.
The event adopts a bold perspective, seeking to go beyond traditional responses to educational needs. By encouraging participants to ‘think outside the box,’ it aims to redefine the role of education not only as a lifeline in times of crisis but as a catalyst for long-term resilience, social and environmental transformation, and peace.
The forum adopts the Open Space Methodology, giving all participants the opportunity to put forward those themes that are most relevant for them.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR ONLINE PARTICIPANTS :
Only opening panel discussion will be accessible online.
Panel Discussion and closing session:
The Forum will open and close with plenary sessions featuring renowned speakers—academics, policymakers, practitioners, and activists—who will highlight innovative strategies, share inspiring success stories, and provide actionable insights into addressing the challenges of education in times of crisis. (Only the opening discussion will be available online.)
Open Space Workshops
Dive into self-organised workshops focused on specific themes or questions relevant to participants. Discuss, share ideas, and generate new insights and solutions for future actions. (Reserved for in-person participants in Bern.)
Networking
The Forum offers a unique opportunity to forge meaningful connections. You will have the chance to meet and engage with RECI member organisations, individual members, and partners.
This event is intended for a diverse group of stakeholders:
- Educators and education policymakers addressing the challenges of emergency contexts.
- Researchers and innovators pushing the boundaries of traditional thinking.
- International organisations and NGOs involved in education and international cooperation
- Anyone interested in education in emergencies.
The best way to understand the Open Space methodology is to experience it firsthand. The advantage of this approach is that no prior knowledge is required to participate! Simply bring your curiosity, questions, experience, and openness to discover what others have to offer.
Open Space provides fresh perspectives, creates new connections, and generates renewed ideas and motivation for your work. This dynamic and inclusive approach encourages active participation and collaboration. Participants collectively build the agenda by proposing discussion topics they are most passionate about. The « law of two feet » principle allows participants to move freely between conversations, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas.
This methodology is particularly suited to addressing complex challenges, as it enables the convergence of diverse perspectives, facilitating the generation of innovative solutions and a deeper understanding of multifaceted issues.
Organising Committee :
The RECI Education Forum 2025 is organised by the Education in Emergencies Working Group and RECI Backoffice.
Valeria Kunz (Save the Children), Derya Kaygisiz (Save the Children), Sara Dienes (Helpcode), Beatrice Schulter, Nadine Bernasconi and Odile Sobacic (RECI).