Gabriela Arenas
Co-Chief Facilitator (Catalyst Now) & Founder (TAAP Foundation)
Catalyst Now & TAPP Foundation
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The LearningPlanet Festival is back!
Since 2020, the LearningPlanet Festival has been organised each January to celebrate the International Day of Education, bringing together hundreds of thousands of participants from 193 countries. In 2026, the festival returns for its 7th edition, from 21–28 January 2026, as part of a growing global movement to reimagine education in the 21st century.
Transforming education cannot be done in isolation – it demands collective action. By fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, the Festival amplifies voices and perspectives from around the world, with a focus on the Global South, strengthening an open coalition committed to advancing a shared learning agenda that equips youth and communities to shape a better future for all.
The Festival belongs to all of us — we warmly invite you to co-create this next chapter with us. Submit your event in English and other languages to the LearningPlanet Festival, and events in French to the Festival de l’Apprendre.
Host your events at the LearningPlanet Festival
(English and other languages)
(English and other languages)
- Format: online, hybrid, or on-site
- Event types: workshops, hackathons, panel discussions, cultural performances, well-being activities, and more.
- Topics: youth empowerment, peace, citizenship, environment, AI & edtech, lifelong learning, social innovation, science & research
Submit your events for the Festival de l'Apprendre (in French only)
- Format: en ligne, hybride, ou en physique.
- Types: ateliers, hackathons, conférences, performances, activités bien-être, etc.
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international partners
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Placing youth participation and intergenerational leadership at the core
The Learning Planet Institute is now recognised as the United Nations University (UNU) Hub on the Future of Learning with Youth in the Age of AI. The Festival embodies this partnership, reaffirming our commitment to place youth participation and intergenerational leadership at the heart of education transformation.
Together, we seek to foster dialogue across generations, co-create with young people, and empower them to actively shape the decisions and solutions of tomorrow. We call on partners to put youth at the center of their Festival events – creating spaces where young people can engage, contribute, and lead the way forward. Refer to our guide below on intergenerational convenings for inspiration, practical tips, and concrete steps to support your event design.
LearningPlanet Festival thematics
The themes listed are offered as inspiration. Your topics need not fit neatly into these categories, we welcome all topics related to reimagining education – be bold, creative, and innovative!
Learning and Education Pathways
Rethinking schools, universities, vocational training, lifelong learning, and innovative ecosystems to equip learners with the skills and values to thrive in a changing world
Youth and Civic Empowerment
Putting young people at the forefront through active citizenship, peace-building, and community action, while fostering intergenerational collaboration & leadership.
Environment and Planetary Futures
Advancing education for climate action, biodiversity, regenerative practices, and futures literacy to prepare learners as stewards of the planet.
Equity, Well-being, and Social Innovation
Promoting inclusion, diversity, equity, mental health, and social-justice innovation that strengthens resilience and community well-being.
Creativity, Science and Emerging Technologies
Bridging arts, culture, and indigenous wisdom with science, research, AI, and EdTech to unlock new possibilities for learning and collaboration.
Sneak peek at our 2026 Festival speakers
Frequently Asked Questions
See all FAQWho can participate?
Anyone — youth, educators, organisations, and changemakers worldwide. You can attend, host, or speak.
When is the Festival and when do event submissions begin?
The 7th Edition runs from 21–28 January 2026, with an extended window from 16–31 January to give partners flexibility in hosting events. Submissions open in mid-October 2025 and remain open until the Festival ends.
Is there a fee to participate?
No. Participation is free whether you attend, organise, or speak. Online sessions are open access – simply register via our platform and add events to your calendar.
What kinds of events can I host?
All formats are welcome — from masterclasses, round tables, and workshops to hackathons, performances, concerts, exhibitions, and well-being activities. Events can be online, on-site, or hybrid. Additionally, the event can take place in any setting – schools, universities, community centers, public spaces, and more.
How do I submit an event?
You will first need to create an account and complete the submission form here. You’ll be asked to provide your event title, description, time zone, format, language, speakers, image, and registration/streaming link. Event details can be updated later through your dashboard if needed. Please allow up to 2 business days for validation before your event goes live.
Can I edit my event after publishing?
Yes. You can log in to your dashboard to update your event. Please note that editing will be disabled 48 hours before the event start time. Each change goes through a new validation process, so updates might take some time before appearing.
Will events be recorded or shared?
Recording is optional but encouraged. After the Festival, organisers can share their recordings with the LPF team, who will feature them on the Festival webpage for ongoing access.
How can I contact the LearningPlanet Festival team?
Please write to us at festival@learningplanetinstitute.org