The idea of establishing an APEC Education Forum — the body that preceded the APEC Education Network (EDNET) — was proposed during the first meeting of Education Ministers of the APEC Region held in Washington D.C. in 1992 that focused on “Education Standards for the 21st Century”.
To ensure education standards across the APEC region to respond to the needs of the 21st century, ministers from the then 14 APEC member economies agreed to engage in mutually-beneficial cooperative activities in education. For the purposes of developing and implementing these activities, and carrying out further discussions on high-priority education issues, the ministers endorsed the establishment of the APEC Education Forum.
EDNET consists of focal points at official agencies in 21 APEC member economies. It is considered a significant platform for education cooperation and development in the Asia-Pacific region.
The United States chaired the Forum as “Coordinator” from 1993 to 1996. This role has since been played by Thailand (1997-2000), Chinese Taipei (2000 to 2003), Chile (2004-2007), Korea (2007-2010), US again (2011-2014) and China (2015-2020).
To foster strong and vibrant learning systems across APEC member economies, the Education Network (EDNET) dedicates itself to promote education for all, and strengthen the role of education in promoting social, individual, economic and sustainable development through cross-border education cooperation.
- Developing global education cooperation with other relevant fora and institutions/multilateral organizations through collaborative research and publication, exchange programs, training and education;
- Providing appropriate opportunities and conducive environment for K-12 children and students in higher education to engage in happy and effective learning;
- Preparing today’s youth with appropriate education and training, skills, and participating in cross-border education to succeed in their local education system and compete in a globalized world.