The roundtable discussion "From Geneva to the World – A Journey to Transform Curriculum and Learning" provided insights into the evolution of global education. A key reference for this event is the book The International Bureau of Education (1925-1968): The Ascent From the Individual to the Universal, co-authored by Rita Hofstetter and Bernard Schneuwly. The book explores the IBE’s role in shaping educational policies worldwide, drawing from transnational research and previously unpublished archives.

Held at the "Maison de la Paix" in Geneva, the roundtable brought together experts—including Nobel laureate Jacques Dubochet—to discuss how the IBE’s core values of peace and equity continue to shape global education policies in the face of technological change, educational inequalities, and climate challenges.

During this roundtable, Martine Brunschwig Graf, former Federal politician and former president of the Swiss Federal Commission against Racism and Antisemitism, highlighted a striking contrast in education systems worldwide. She recalled how, in some countries, schools operated on double shifts, with 150 students in the morning and another 150 in the afternoon. In contrast, she noted, "I come from a canton where simply adding one more student to a class was almost seen as a revolution—I’m exaggerating, of course, but the difference is striking."

Placing international understanding at the core

In 1968, Jean Piaget’s last conference emphasized the importance of thinking across different disciplines and integrating knowledge. Education is not just about isolated subjects; it should be interconnected and influenced by multiple perspectives.

Representing Switzerland at UNESCO and at the International Conference on Education, Martine Brunschwig Graf underscored the significance of universal access to education, a key pillar of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She emphasized that citizenship education is essential—not just for fostering peace but for shaping the way individuals interact in society, including in schools.

"The Swiss delegation has always upheld the principle of diversity and evaluation, ensuring that policies are assessed for their effectiveness. The 2023 UNESCO report stressed the importance of good resource management and sustainable funding, a challenge faced even by major contributors" added Mrs Brunschwig Graf. She pointed out that the U.S. withdrawal from UNESCO in the past serves as a reminder that no institution is immune to financial or political shifts.

Education, the key to protecting fundamental rights

For both students and teachers, education must be aligned with today’s global challenges. Arlinda Ramqaj, teacher, education activist and panelist says that "with ongoing conflicts, a decline in democracies, and worsening inequalities, we are far from meeting the goal of reducing the 250 million children currently out of school. The situation is daunting, but education remains the foundation of all other rights."

In an increasingly fast-paced world, Mrs. Ramqaj explains that "we must adapt education while upholding essential values. "Putting money where our mouth is"—investing in education—is one of the most important commitments societies can make. We must equip students with the right tools and knowledge to navigate an evolving world."

Addressing racism in schools

Schools should be safe spaces where students and teachers can address racism and discrimination. Mrs. Brunschwig Graf recalled witnessing firsthand how 150 students per shift could lead to complex social dynamics. Unfortunately, many educators lack the tools to effectively address these issues, and school leadership often prefers to remain silent. It is crucial to create spaces where students and teachers can openly discuss and tackle racism in a constructive way.

David Glaser

📖 For more information, the book The International Bureau of Education (1925-1968) is available in open access: [library.oapen.org/handle/20.50...]

Check our interview about the history of IBE and the role of Geneva based pedagogue and psychologist Jean Piaget with the roundtable panelist, Professor Philippe Schneuwly.

Photo : Grégory Maillot, copyright IBE

Roundtable Speakers

1. Bernard Schneuwly, Professor at UNIGE, writer, and historian of educational trends.
2. Martine Brunschwig Graf, education advocate, current member of the FONSART Foundation Board (publisher of geneveMonde.ch), and former member of the Swiss National Council
3. Arlinda Ramqaj, teacher and education activist
4. Metin Arditi, Geneva-based writer and philanthropist
5. Jacques Dubochet (on video), 2017 Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry