The global population will top 8 billion by 2030. This rapid population growth is straining traditional education systems in many emerging market economies where most of this expansion will take place. However, new school models, technologies and funding schemes present an unprecedented opportunity to meet this demand. Distance learning systems already in place have allowed two-way instruction in many of the world's remotest areas, at the same time simple broadband penetration may allow all of the world's school population to benefit from current innovations in blended and online learning. In some parts of the world this demographic growth represents a business opportunity for low cost school providers. However, concerns exist about how to guarantee equity and quality. How will both society and the public sector manage this tumultuous growth of both need and potential, but untested solutions?
-Moderator: John Elledge, Editor of Education Investor, UK
- H.E. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, Federal Minister of Education, Nigeria
- Professor James Tooley, Professor of Education Policy, Newcastle University, UK
-Dr. Manny Rybach, Managing Director, Credit Suisse, Switzerland
- Mark Pay, Managing Director, Equity Investments, CDC Capital Partners, UK
- Salathiel Ntakirutimana, UN GEFI Youth Advocacy Group, Burundi
