Youth workshop sparks discussions on Futures of Education in Southeast Asia
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Goldsmiths has a long-standing commitment to social justice, critical education, and youth participation, values that are deeply embedded in our research and teaching.
From student-led activism to global partnerships, the university continues to support work that challenges inequality and empowers communities.
This summer, we've been realising that commitment through a youth-led initiative in Manila, with young organisers from across South and Southeast Asia coming together to shape the future of education in crisis-affected regions.
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“We’re not just learning — we’re shaping the future.” A moment from the Futures of Education workshop, led by Dr Chris Millora, where youth leaders explored how research can drive change.
Co-led by Dr Chris Millora, Lecturer in Educational Studies, the project supports youth organisers to reimagine education in the face of climate change, conflict, and displacement.
The Youth Workshop on the Futures of Education in South and Southeast Asia, brought together youth leaders from the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Timor Leste, and Sri Lanka.
The participants are part of grassroots organisations in their countries, including the Network for Education Watch Indonesia, the Civil Society Education Partnership Timor Leste and the University of Sto. Tomas Student Teachers’ Association in the Philippines.
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Young leaders from across South and Southeast Asia come together to collaborate on shared visions and to shape a more inclusive future for education in the region.
Over three days, participants shared insights from their local contexts, explored the role of education in responding to emergencies, and co-developed a Call to Action for more inclusive and resilient education systems.
Supporting development and global equity
The workshop is part of a wider project funded through Goldsmiths’ Official Development Assistance (ODA) scheme, which supports research that contributes to sustainable development and global equity.
Delivered in partnership with the Global Campaign for Education (GCE), E-Net Philippines and Asia South Pacific Association for Basic and Adult Education (ASPBAE) the project builds on Dr Millora’s long-standing research into youth activism and literacies.
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Youth participants collaborate on drafting a regional Call to Action, identifying urgent threats and opportunities for the future of education in emergencies.
This work is deeply personal to me. I grew up in a region where education is often disrupted by typhoons, displacement, and political unrest. It is often young people, despite all the challenge they face, who organise, lead, and imagine better futures."
Dr Chris Millora, MA Social Justice in Education
"This workshop is about giving them the space and support to do just that and facilitate cross-cultural learning across youths in the region," continued Dr Millora.
Influencing education policy in crisis-affected areas
The programme included creative workshops, collaborative sessions, panel discussion with youth advocates, and field visits. The visit included a trip to the Philippines’ Technical Education and Skills Development Authority where participants saw firsthand the country’s effort in training its young people to be equipped with 21st century skills.
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“Seeing these programmes in action helped us imagine what inclusive, skills-based education could look like in our own communities.” — a moment from the Futures of Education field trip.
This workshop felt like a manual for how to ensure young people’s roles and contributions — combining their knowledge and lived experiences — can truly transform the future of education to be more resilient, impactful, and relevant.“
Anabella Sabilah, Network for Education Watch, Indonesia.
Participants also explored intergenerational learning and youth engagement in policymaking. The workshop culminated in the drafting of a Call to Action for the Future of Education in Emergencies, providing a blueprint for influencing education policy in crisis-affected areas in the region.
Representing Sri Lanka at this workshop was a turning point for me. It opened my eyes to how young people across the region are tackling similar challenges in education — and how powerful our voices can be when we come together. I return home with new ideas, greater confidence, and a strong belief that youth must be at the heart of shaping the future of education.”
Lahiru Wijesinghe, Coalition for Educational Development (CED), Sri Lanka
What’s next?
Following the workshop, the participants will be meeting online to finalise their Call to Action, get feedback from their constituency and co-create next steps. They’ll also take part in follow-up sessions to track progress and explore opportunities for further collaboration, advocacy, and learning.
Want to turn your passion for change into action?
Explore how global politics, education, and activism intersect — and how you can be part of shaping the future.
Learn more about the MA Social Justice in Education at Goldsmiths.