Youth Voices in Action: ASEAN+3 Educational Forum & Young Speakers’ Contest Shapes Regional Policy

The 20th ASEAN University Network (AUN) and 9th ASEAN+3 Educational Forum and Young Speakers’ Contest brought together the brightest young minds from across ASEAN+3, a testament to the power of youth-led dialogue and regional collaboration. Held in Surabaya, Indonesia, from 22 to 27 October 2024, this year’s event highlighted the dedication of ASEAN youth to address critical issues impacting the region’s future.

This year’s theme, “Emancipated Education as a Path Towards an Emancipated Future,” inspired participants to explore how education can be a vehicle for change. The forum kicked off with students each representing their nation presenting their country's position, setting a foundation of diverse insights that laid the groundwork for dynamic discussion that followed. Every country’s unique perspective highlighted the diversity of ASEAN+3, as students shared their hopes and ideas for an education system that embraces inclusivity, sustainability, and resilience.

The event’s collaborative process continued as delegates were organized into three working groups, each focusing on a sub-topic within the broader theme: Social Issues, Environmental Issues, and Political Issues. Unlike traditional exercises, this forum is not just an academic simulation; it serves as a real platform for generating policy recommendations. By organizing each group with representatives from multiple nations, the forum cultivated an atmosphere of unity, as students from different cultural and educational backgrounds engaged in collective problem-solving. The discussions in each group were enlightening, as delegates worked together to identify barriers, propose actionable solutions, and emphasize shared responsibility across borders.

The forum’s culmination was the creation of a joint statement—a document that encapsulates the collaborative spirit and visionary ideas of ASEAN+3 youth. This joint statement, developed through consensus, is a critical contribution to the ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting on Youth (SOMY), making this platform an impactful channel for youth-driven policy input within ASEAN.

As the forum concluded, participants reflected on the friendships formed, the skills gained in diplomacy and critical thinking, and their shared vision for a future where education is a force for empowerment across the ASEAN+3 region. This gathering exemplifies ASEAN’s commitment to nurturing youth as the architects of tomorrow's policies, bridging cultural divides and fostering a united vision for sustainable development.

20th AUN Educational Forum Joint Statement

Highlighting the impact of this year’s discussions and collaborative achievements, the joint statement provides an opportunity that empowers students and universities to shape the future of education in ASEAN. We look forward to seeing even more voices contribute to next year’s journey toward impactful regional change!