IB African Education Festival South Africa 2026: Building Ubuntu Through Education
The IB African Education Festival South Africa 2026 is under way, bringing together educators, policymakers and education leaders to discuss the future of learning across the African continent. The International Baccalaureate organised the two-day event on 10–11 April 2026 at the American International School in Midrand, South Africa.
The theme reflects the central importance of community, collaboration and thoughtful innovation in shaping education across Africa. Ubuntu — the philosophy of shared humanity — sits at the heart of this year’s conversation about how education systems can serve both individuals and communities.
Three pillars of the festival
The festival is built around three core ideas that guide its sessions, workshops and discussions:
Community
Helping education systems build a sense of belonging and shared responsibility within local communities.
Collaboration
Encouraging schools, countries and education systems to work together to improve learning outcomes across Africa.
Mindfulness
Exploring how schools can adopt technology — including AI — in ways that are fair, ethical and beneficial for all students.
Government leadership and key speakers
The event has attracted senior government representation, underlining the significance of the festival for education policy across the region.
Deputy Minister Nomusa Dube-Ncube
The Deputy Minister is scheduled to address attendees on themes including the future skills needed to transform education and the practical application of Ubuntu values inside classrooms.
Alongside government leaders, attendees can hear from keynote speakers, take part in interactive workshops, connect with peers and view presentations showcasing new education ideas from across Africa.
What to expect at the festival
The two-day programme offers a wide range of opportunities for participants — from structured keynote addresses and panel discussions to hands-on workshops and networking sessions. Presentations highlight innovative approaches to education being developed and implemented across the African continent, providing valuable insights for educators at every level.
Ubuntu teaches us that a person is a person through other people. This festival is an opportunity to bring that philosophy into the classroom and reimagine what education can look like when it is truly rooted in community. — Festival theme, IB African Education Festival 2026
Still time to register
Even though the festival has already begun, it is still possible to register on the IB website and attend sessions on the day. Interested participants are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible to secure their place.
Register to attend — sessions still open
Visit the IB website to register and join the festival on the day. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this important conversation about the future of education in Africa.
Register on the IB website →