The ARC10 Policy Dialogue on Reimagining the SDGs and Education Post-2030 successfully concluded with a day of forward-looking discussions that brought together policymakers, higher education leaders, youth representatives, and experts from across Asia and Europe. The dialogue forms part of ongoing preparations toward the 10th Asia-Europe Meeting of Ministers for Education (ASEMME10) in 2026.
SEAMEO RIHED was pleased to contribute regional perspectives to this important conversation, reinforcing Southeast Asia’s role in shaping a future education agenda that moves beyond the constraints of Agenda 2030.
Representing SEAMEO RIHED, Ms Christelle Agustin highlighted that the future of higher education must be grounded in collaborative, and impact-driven regional action.
She emphasised that as the global community moves beyond SDG terminology, higher education systems must remain focused on common recognition, relevance, equitable access, and long-term development outcomes. Rather than treating sustainability as a temporary agenda, institutions should embed it structurally through cooperation, evidence-based policymaking, and shared regional responsibility.
SEAMEO RIHED’s intervention reflected its long-standing commitment to fostering regional policy communities that connect decision-makers, institutions, and practitioners—ensuring that higher education remains responsive to societal needs while supporting inclusive and sustainable growth.
The panel also featured perspectives from regional and global partners, underscoring the multidimensional nature of education beyond 2030. Contributions highlighted the importance of quality and equity, ethical governance, cultural relevance, youth participation, and climate-responsive education systems. Across these perspectives, a common message emerged: education must move from policy aspiration to lived reality.
SEAMEO RIHED actively contributed to discussions on key thematic areas, including:
access and equity in education,
artificial intelligence and digital transformation, and
governance, leadership, and system alignment.
These exchanges are shaping a collective output that will articulate guiding principles and areas of collaboration for education beyond 2030. The ARC10 Policy Dialogue output is expected to serve as a substantive contribution to ASEMME10 in 2026, providing concrete ideas to inform ministerial discussions at the Asia-Europe level.
SEAMEO RIHED remains committed to advancing a future-oriented higher education agenda that supports sustainable, inclusive development across Southeast Asia and beyond. By engaging in platforms such as ARC10, RIHED continues to strengthen regional voices within global policy dialogues and to advocate for higher education systems that are collaborative, resilient, and values-driven.
SEAMEO RIHED extends its sincere appreciation to its partners SNSPA, the Ministry of Education and Research of Romania, and the ASEM Education Secretariat, as well as all speakers, facilitators, and participants who contributed to the success of the ARC10 Policy Dialogue.
