Minister Popovienė attended the Education World Forum in London and met with the local Lithuanian community
This week, the Minister of Education, Science and Sport Raminta Popovienė participated in the Education World Forum 2026 in London, the largest annual event for ministers of education where ministers from all over the world share their experiences on key education topics.
At the forum, it was stressed that education is becoming an integral part of national security, and that it is important to enhance the building of citizenship, develop critical thinking and media literacy. Discussions also focused on how to develop teachers’ competences in AI and digital literacy and how to keep humans at the heart of the education system.
During the forum, ministers also discussed the importance of developing future-ready skills, the well-being of students, and strengthening equal opportunities in education. Discussions extended to early childhood education, vocational training, strengthening non-formal education, etc.
Lithuanian language schools in London focus on community needs
During her visit to London, the Minister also visited the Lithuanian kindergarten Obelėlė and the Lithuanian Academy school based in London. The Minister addressed the educational issues of the Lithuanian diaspora, learned the needs of the community.
During the meeting, the heads of Lithuanian language schools presented the most pressing challenges of Lithuanian language schools, the needs for improving the competences of teachers and leaders, and the needs for attracting and retaining teachers in Lithuanian language schools.
The representatives of the schools stressed that they particularly appreciate the financial support provided by Lithuania and the progress in improving the funding model for Lithuanian language schools. Minister Popovienė assured that the Government would continue to adhere to the commitment set out in the programme to consistently fund the activities of Lithuanian language schools abroad.
The Minister also met with representatives of the debating club in London, including schoolchildren and students who participate in the club’s activities and improve their Lithuanian language skills. The young people wanted to know how to become a political authority and what the Minister’s working day is like.
Lithuanian education priorities presented to London’s Lithuanians
At the Embassy of the Republic of Lithuania to the United Kingdom of Great Britain, Minister Popovienė met with leaders of Lithuanian communities, education, culture and youth organisations operating in the United Kingdom. During the meeting, the Minister presented key policies and priorities of the Lithuanian education and discussed the opportunities for strengthening Lithuanian education abroad.
Representatives of the communities shared their experiences and insights about the initiatives taken by the UK Lithuanians to strengthen their ties with Lithuania, presented the challenges faced by Lithuanian language organisations and offered proposals for closer cooperation with Lithuanian institutions.
According to the Minister, Lithuanians abroad are an important part of Lithuania, who contribute to the promotion of Lithuanian culture and citizenship. Lithuanian organisations in the UK help to maintain links with Lithuania and assist in integrating back into the country upon return home.