First Asia-Pacific Regional Education Ministers Conference (APREMC-I)
Overview
The First Asia-Pacific Regional Education Ministers Conference (APREMC-I) served as a crucial milestone in shaping the region’s education agenda beyond 2015. Convened in Bangkok from 3 to 5 August 2015 by UNESCO Bangkok, the conference brought together Ministers of Education and high-level representatives from over 40 Member States, development agencies, civil society, and youth organizations.
As the regional preparatory platform ahead of the World Education Forum 2015 and the UN Summit on the Sustainable Development Goals, APREMC-I mobilized political commitment and regional consensus around a common education vision for 2030. Participants collectively reaffirmed the importance of inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning for all, contributing directly to the development of SDG 4.
Background and Purpose
With 2015 marking the target year for the Education for All (EFA) and Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), APREMC-I was organized to take stock of regional progress, identify key challenges, and chart a forward-looking roadmap. Drawing from extensive regional consultations and national reviews, the conference provided a space to:
- Review progress and lessons learned from the EFA agenda
- Engage in dialogue on the proposed global education goal and targets
- Foster regional ownership of the post-2015 education agenda
- Define priorities and strategies aligned with a lifelong learning perspective
The conference reinforced education as a transformative force in the broader development agenda, emphasizing access, equity, quality, and inclusion across all ages and learning modalities.
Conference Highlights
Ministers and officials united to shape the regional education agenda.
A shared plan to guide national and regional SDG 4 actions.
Asia-Pacific ministers pledged bold action for Education 2030.
Reflections on lessons from the Education for All (EFA) journey.
"This conference marks a turning point for education in our region. Together, we are shaping a shared vision where every learner can thrive — through inclusive, equitable, and quality education for all."
Conference Materials
Acknowledgement of Support
About APREMC
The Asia-Pacific Regional Education Ministers Conference (APREMC) series is a key high-level platform hosted by UNESCO and partners to advance SDG 4 in the region. It offers space for Member States and stakeholders to discuss progress, challenges, and opportunities in transforming education systems and accelerating commitments toward Education 2030.
Visit the APREMC-II page for updates on the second edition of the conference held in 2022.
