The International Baccalaureate (IB) is delighted to announce the return of the African Education Festival, taking place 10–11 April 2026 in Johannesburg, South Africa. Following the success of the previous festival in Kigali, this year’s gathering will once again bring together educators, school leaders, policymakers, universities, NGOs, and partners from across Africa and beyond for two days of collaboration and professional learning.
Hosted at the American International School of Johannesburg (AISJ), the 2026 festival explores the inspiring theme of “Building Ubuntu through Education in Africa – Shared humanity, unique context.” Rooted in the African philosophy of Ubuntu (I am because we are), discussions will explore how education systems can strengthen belonging, foster meaningful collaboration, and ensure humanity remains at the heart of innovation – particularly as schools navigate an increasingly AI-driven world.
The festival offers a vibrant platform for professionals in education to exchange ideas, share best practices, and spotlight innovative approaches shaping Africa’s educational landscape. Attendees can expect dynamic keynote sessions led by visionary thought leaders, interactive breakout workshops spanning community, collaboration and mindfulness, networking opportunities with sponsors, peers and partners from across the continent, and showcases of inspiring school stories and solutions.
The festival welcomes a broad community of education professionals, including heads of school, programme coordinators, teachers, ministry representatives, NGOs, universities, and organizations committed to youth development and educational access across Africa.
This year’s festival will also feature distinguished voices from across Africa and the global education community, including:
- Judy Sikuza, Chief Executive Officer of the Mandela Rhodes Foundation and a leadership development specialist committed to advancing education and ethical leadership across Africa.
- Amy Sarr Fall, ambassador for education, sustainable development and gender equality, known for her influential work in advancing women’s leadership, civic engagement, and cross-cultural dialogue.
- Tshepo Motsepe, Director of Legal, Policy and Government Relations at the Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa (ISASA) and a leading advocate for education policy in South Africa.
- James McCrae, author, poet and teacher, founder of Sunflower Club.
Additional sessions will feature IB leaders and regional experts exploring curriculum design, digital strategy, opportunity and belonging, and the evolving role of education in shaping Africa’s future.
The African Education Festival 2026 promises to be an energising space for sharing ideas, strengthening networks, and advancing education grounded in Ubuntu – our shared humanity.
Registration is now open – read more about the festival and get your ticket here:
https://ibo.org/african-education-festival-south-africa-2026/
 is delighted to announce the return of the African Education Festival, taking place 10–11 April 2026 in Johannesburg, South Africa. Following the success of the previous festival in Kigali, this year’s gathering will once again bring together educators, school leaders, policymakers, universities, NGOs, and partners from across Africa and beyond for two days of collaboration and professional learning.){kind=icon}