Partnering with Young People to Transform Education Systems: A Global Network’s Approach and Strategies

This working paper explores how Network for Education Systems Transformation (NEST) member organizations currently define, engage and involve young people across research and programmatic activities, highlighting both best practices and existing gaps. Utilizing Roger Hart’s Ladder of Children Participation, NEST surveyed the member organizations to understand the existing practices at each organization, the emerging practices of the network as a whole, as well as key challenges to and recommendations for centering youth voice in the network. The survey findings revealed that while the definitions, engagement frameworks, and strategies for youth participation vary across NEST members, there is a strong consensus to move toward a youth leadershipdriven and power-sharing approach. To operationalize this vision, the Discovery Group recommends that the network expand and deepen its pathways for active youth contribution throughout the research processes, from design to dissemination. Similarly, young people may also participate via advisory roles, mentorship programs, and intergenerational collaboration.