Lecture Renewing the Social Contract for Education: Navigating Possible Futures

The Comparative Education Section of the Portuguese Society of Educational Sciences (SEC-SPCE) is honoured to present the VI WCCES Symposium, which will be held in Lisbon, Portugal, from 16th to 18th July 2025, at Lusófona University, co-organised by CeiED (Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies in Education and Development), with the central theme of the contemporary challenge of “Renewing the social contract for education: navigating possible futures.”

In a global context characterised by rapid social, economic, and technological transformations, the social contract underpinning educational systems worldwide is under unprecedented pressure. Deep educational inequalities, growing cultural diversity, the demand for new skills for the 21st century, and the impacts of digitalisation require a reconsideration of the ethical, political, and pedagogical foundations that support educational practices. In this scenario, the VI WCCES Symposium provides a platform for interdisciplinary and international scientific dialogue, inviting scholars, researchers, educators, policymakers, and other stakeholders to reflect on possible futures for education, from a comparative perspective, and their global and local implications.

The chosen theme invites us to explore the role of education, and particularly public education policies, in promoting social justice, equity, and sustainability, as well as the emerging challenges of pedagogical innovation in a constantly changing world. The partnership between WCCES (World Council of Comparative Education Societies) and SEC-SPCE provides an excellent framework for the comparative analysis of educational policies and practices, bringing together experts from different geographies and educational contexts to share and discuss innovative perspectives on the renewal of the social contract for education.

This event thus aims to promote the exchange and mobilisation of knowledge and strengthen research and international cooperation networks, contributing to the construction of a shared vision on the paths forward for a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable education. With great anticipation, we look forward to the participation of all interested parties, hoping that this symposium will be a unique opportunity to navigate and co-create the possible futures of education.

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