SPARK.Dubai 2026
Unlocking the power of a million schools
2 February 2026, Dubai, UAE
SPARK.Dubai 2026 is a one-day conference that will explore ways to unlock the transformative power of the world’s schools.
The conference, which will be hosted by the Varkey Foundation, will take place across four of Dubai’s leading schools on 2 February 2026 and will convene global leaders and education experts alongside teachers and students from more than 50 countries.
Schools represent the world’s most powerful social network, one with the potential to connect 75 million teachers and 1.3 billion children globally. Connecting even a fraction of the world’s schools to each other – through models like peer-to-peer networks and knowledge-sharing partnerships – could unlock unprecedented opportunities for underserved learners, particularly in countries with high levels of learning poverty.
It would also give schools the collective power to address even the greatest of global issues.
Despite the best efforts of governments and global policymakers, however, such connections have proved difficult to make, difficult to scale, and even more difficult to sustain. But there are still numerous examples of innovative models which have succeeded in bringing schools together to improve education and learning, as well as to address a range of different social challenges.
With just four years remaining to reach Sustainable Development Goal 4, what can the international community learn from these efforts, how can it support them, and what would it take to connect schools at an unprecedented scale?
Inspiring Keynotes
Hear the latest insights from global education leaders and innovators.
Interactive Workshops
Take part in workshops on how schools can unlock inclusivity, creativity and wellbeing.
SPARK Workshop & Challenge
Join a new leadership and social action workshop for young changemakers, powered by Global Social Leaders.
Networking Opportunities
Connect with Global Teachers Prize winners and finalists, students, and global leaders.
School Showcases
See what best practice looks like in some of the world’s best schools, as they showcase their approaches to key issues.
“Celebration of Teachers” Gala Dinner
An invitation to join an exclusive dinner, in celebration and support of teachers around the world.
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Educators and Teachers: Including award-winning teachers and educators who bring insights from their classroom experiences.
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Policymakers: Government officials and policymakers who can influence education policy at national and international levels.
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Business Leaders: Representatives from the corporate sector who can contribute to education through funding, partnerships, and technology.
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NGOs and Non-profits: Organizations working in the field of education, child rights, and development.
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Students and Youth Leaders: Young voices who can share their perspectives and experiences in the education system.
