Education is a key driver of equality, opportunity and empowerment, but numerous and varied barriers exist which block the pathways to accessing and acquiring the contextually appropriate knowledge required by those most impacted by inequalities to thrive. These obstacles are entrenched in social norms, which often intersect, increasing their ability to exclude.
The theme of Inclusion and Intersectionality seeks to explore the complex interplay of factors influencing inclusion and exclusion in education. It recognises that marginalisation arises from the intersection of multiple factors, including but not limited to religion, gender, ethnicity, language, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, expression, sex characteristics (SOGIESC), and disability. We encourage submissions that take an intersectional lens to examine how education systems, communities, and stakeholders can challenge and transform systemic inequalities. By addressing these multiple dimensions of inclusion, the theme aims to identify ways to ensure equitable access, meaningful participation, and improved learning outcomes for all learners. Importantly, this theme emphasises that the nature and manifestations of marginalisation differ across contexts, and thus, context-specific approaches, innovative practices, and evidence-based strategies are key.
In this theme, we would like to hear from practice or research that demonstrates holistic and sustainable approaches that draw from local knowledge, experience, and theory and systematically address social norms that enable a more inclusive and effective education system—for example, looking at how girls’ education can tackle challenging local environments. We are particularly interested in inclusive and participatory research and data methodologies that address data disaggregation, definitional challenges, and intersectionality. These data methodologies will centre expertise, knowledge, accountability and influencing processes around local and representative voices, narratives, priorities and capabilities.
We welcome submissions that explore the role of education in addressing systemic inequalities while advancing global and local conversations about inclusion. Contributions may span empirical research, theoretical explorations, and lessons from practice or programming, covering diverse forms of education and training from early childhood to lifelong learning.
Questions for Exploration:
- How can education systems identify and address intersectional inequalities while fostering innovation and context-specific approaches?
- How can partnerships across the Global North-South and South-South contribute to advancing inclusive and equitable education practices?
- How can we address and challenge the intersectionality of social norms to enable equitable access to, participation in and achievement of education for empowerment?
- How can inclusive and participatory data methodologies address challenges related to data disaggregation, definitional challenges, and intersectionality?
- In what ways can these methodologies centre local voices, knowledge, expertise and priorities?
Sub theme Convenors
 Samantha Ross – Link Education |
 Michelle Sandall – Save the Children |
 Laraib Niaz – University of Cambridge |