The two-day event started yesterday at the Berkeley Hotel Pratunam.

Hosted by Thailand’s Education Ministry and the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organisation (Seameo), the congress is a platform for leaders and experts in the education field to share their ideas, experiences and practices in implementing the post-2015 Seameo education agenda.

The theme of “Making a Difference: Shaping a new learning paradigm for a sustainable Southeast Asia” aims to pave the way for more inclusive and innovative learning paradigms and education policies to reach global standards.

The conference also focuses on education for sustainable development and individual development to uplift the capability and strength of society.

“The challenge of realising sustainable development leaves no doubt that the solution towards inclusive education at all levels to truly understand the principles of sustainability is enshrined in the sufficiency economy philosophy initiated by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej in the 1970s,” said Teerakiat Jareonsettasin, education minister of Thailand and president of Seameo Council.

The late king’s philosophy was founded on three fundamental pillars – moderation, reasonableness and self-immunity – as well as knowledge and virtue, he said.

“It is my sincere belief that this philosophy will ensure our development consistent with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals, particularly, the goals and targets for education, SDG-4, which calls for a more equitable, inclusive and quality lifelong learning for all,” he said.