Empowering Educators: AI and Pedagogical Innovation in School Education

14 November 2026 | Mandarina, Colombo, Sri Lanka

The International Youth Council (IYC), in collaboration with Educators Without Borders International (EWBI) and the University of Birmingham, will organise an international capacity-building workshop titled Empowering Educators: AI and Pedagogical Innovation in School Education on 14 November 2026 at Mandarina Colombo, Sri Lanka.

This one-day programme aims to equip Sri Lankan school teachers and education professionals with practical knowledge and skills in artificial intelligence-enabled teaching, innovative pedagogical approaches, and resource mobilisation for school-level and community initiatives.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, 14 November 2026

Time: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Venue: Mandarina Colombo, Sri Lanka

Strengthening Educators’ Capabilities

Designed for primary and secondary school teachers, principals, In-Service Advisors (ISAs), and teacher educators from government, semi-government, and private schools, the workshop will provide a platform for international knowledge exchange and professional development.

The programme will explore how emerging technologies and modern teaching approaches can contribute to more engaging, inclusive, and effective learning environments. It will also address the practical challenges educators face when integrating digital tools and student-centred approaches into different educational settings.

Programme Highlights

The workshop will feature contributions from international academics and education specialists, focusing on three principal areas:

Artificial Intelligence and the Future of School Teaching

This session will explore the application of artificial intelligence in school education, including AI tools, ethical considerations, and practical approaches to integrating AI into classroom teaching. The keynote session will be delivered by Professor Fauzan from Malaysia.

Securing Funding, Grants and Resources

Led by Professor Andrew Davies of the University of Birmingham, United Kingdom, this session will examine opportunities and practical strategies for securing financial and other resources to support school-level projects and community initiatives.

Pedagogical Innovation in School Teaching

Facilitated by Professor Abbas Panakkal of Educators Without Borders International, this session will explore active learning strategies, innovative teaching methodologies, and the development of engaging digital content to enhance student participation and learning outcomes.

In addition, dedicated sessions will examine the Sri Lankan education context, including the alignment of modern pedagogical approaches with the national curriculum and competency-based education reforms. Discussions will also address digital literacy and student-centred classroom management in both resource-limited and rural school environments.

Collaboration and Partnerships

The workshop is jointly organised by Educators Without Borders International and the International Youth Council, with the University of Birmingham serving as an organising partner. The initiative is further supported through partnerships with DSSC Old Boys Association, DSSS TMPSS, and Road to 60.

Established in 2019 and registered in Geneva, Switzerland, Educators Without Borders International (EWBI) works to advance educational equity by strengthening the capabilities of teachers, administrators, support staff, and curriculum developers through professional development and training initiatives.

The International Youth Council (IYC) is a global youth-led organisation holding Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). With activities in more than 30 countries, IYC works across youth empowerment, education, diplomacy, and international development, fostering partnerships with universities, governments, United Nations agencies, and civil society organisations.

Investing in the Future of Education

Through this international initiative, IYC and its partners seek to support educators in adapting to an evolving educational landscape, making effective use of emerging technologies, and developing teaching practices that respond to the changing needs of today’s learners.

By connecting international expertise with local educational perspectives, the workshop aims to contribute to stronger teaching capabilities, enhanced professional development, and more innovative learning opportunities across Sri Lanka.

The initiative reflects a shared commitment to empowering educators and advancing the quality, inclusiveness, and innovation of school education.