We asked Kusum Gurung, a FED Learners Council members and co-host of the 4th Annual FED National Education Summit, to share their reflections on the Summit.
Kusum Gurung – Reflections on the FED National Education Summit
I had the privilege of co-hosting the FED National Education Summit 2024, an incredible opportunity to engage with passionate individuals dedicated to transforming our education system. Sharing my perspective during an innovation panel alongside Jason, Valerie, and Aaron was particularly meaningful. As a Warwick Innovation Fellow, I work to foster innovation and entrepreneurship across campus and support student startups. I believe innovation is key to addressing many educational inequalities, and discussing my experiences with innovation – while exploring the potential gaps in educational innovation now compared to the past – was both insightful and thought-provoking.
The summit featured three standout talks that resonated deeply with me. Sir Ian Livingstone’s advocacy for the power of play, digital skills, and the need to adapt the curriculum to modern demands was inspiring. As times have changed, so too have the skills employers seek, and his innovative approach to contextualising the curriculum struck a chord with me as a hands-on learner.
Professor Rose Luckin’s ideas, presented through Jane Mann, explored the transformative role of AI in education. I firmly believe AI is a catalyst for reimagining how we teach and learn. As a student, I have experienced firsthand the power of AI to make learning more personalised, accessible, and efficient. However, these advancements also bring critical ethical considerations, making it essential to have these discussions now.
Finally, Dennis Simms delivered a powerful talk on evidence-informed practices to prevent children’s involvement in violence. By spotlighting this crucial topic, it underscores the need for a proactive approach to violence prevention, ensuring a safer and brighter future for children everywhere.
These discussions revealed the depth and scope of critical conversations happening behind the scenes—conversations that, as a student, we often don’t witness. This has made me appreciate the incredible efforts being made to shape a better future for education. I’m inspired to see these initiatives gaining momentum and look forward to their implementation in the years ahead.
About Kusum Gurung. Kusum is a FED Council Learners Council Member, is a final-year Biomedical Science student at the University of Warwick, with experience advocating for accessible education and innovation. Having relocated to England six years ago, Kusum brings a diverse educational background from Singapore, Nepal, and England, which has driven Kusum’s commitment to a system free from inequalities. In Kusum’s role at Warwick Enterprise, Kusum promotes entrepreneurship and innovation across campus, mentoring student startups to turn their ideas into impactful ventures. Kusum believes that fostering innovation is key to addressing educational inequalities and enabling more inclusive opportunities. From interning with the editorial team at Science Journal For Kids to working as a teaching assistant, Kusum is passionate about making science and education engaging and inspiring the next generation of learners.
If you or someone you know would be interested in hearing more about the FED Learners Council, or are considering joining the council, head over to The FED Leaners Council.
