Inside Education hosts 2026 national education summit

By Charmaine Ndlela

Education stakeholders from across South Africa will gather in Sandton on Monday, 20 April 2026, for the National Education Summit 2026, a high-level platform aimed at strengthening the country’s education system and aligning it with economic demands.

At a time when South Africa faces persistent youth unemployment and shifting skills needs, the summit seeks to move the national conversation beyond access to education, focusing instead on outcomes, impact, and accountability.

Hosted by Inside Metros’ sister publication Inside Education, the summit will bring together policymakers, educators, industry leaders, and innovators to explore solutions for rebuilding and transforming the education pipeline.

Higher Education and Training Minister, Buti Manamela, will deliver the keynote address, setting the tone for discussions on education reform and the role of vocational and technical training in driving economic growth.

He will also participate in a panel discussion on vocational pathways, highlighting their importance in