Introduction
The 13th BRICS Education Ministers Meeting was held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, in August 2026, bringing together education ministers from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa to discuss cooperation in higher education, research, skill development, and technology-driven learning. India hosted the meeting as part of its BRICS responsibilities for the year.
Agenda and Outcomes
The meeting focused on several key themes relevant to education in emerging economies:
- Higher education cooperation: Expanding student and faculty exchange programmes among BRICS nations through the BRICS Network University.
- Vocational and skill training: Aligning vocational qualifications across BRICS countries to enable greater labour mobility.
- Digital education: Leveraging artificial intelligence and digital platforms to improve access to quality education in rural and underserved areas.
- Research collaboration: Strengthening joint research initiatives in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
About BRICS
BRICS is an intergovernmental organisation comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. It was formally established in 2009. The grouping expanded in 2024 with the addition of new members — Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE — forming what is sometimes called BRICS+. The combined GDP of BRICS nations represents a significant portion of the global economy, and the grouping is an important forum for South-South cooperation.
India and BRICS Education
India is a major contributor to BRICS education cooperation through its network of IITs, IIMs, and central universities. The BRICS Network University, which facilitates academic cooperation among member countries, includes Indian universities as key participants. India's National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 aligns with several BRICS education priorities, particularly in promoting multidisciplinary research and digital learning.
Key Facts
- BRICS members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa (original)
- BRICS formally established: 2009
- BRICS+ expansion (2024): Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE
- 13th BRICS Education Ministers Meeting venue: Bhubaneswar, Odisha
- BRICS Network University: Facilitates academic exchange among BRICS countries
- India's Education Minister: Dharmendra Pradhan
Exam Perspective
For UPSC and TNPSC aspirants: BRICS was formed in 2009 (BRIC became BRICS with South Africa's inclusion in 2010 at the Sanya Summit, China). The BRICS chairmanship rotates annually — in alphabetical order (B-R-I-C-S). BRICS summits are held annually. The New Development Bank (NDB), also called the BRICS Bank, is headquartered in Shanghai, China. NEP 2020 (National Education Policy) was approved by the Union Cabinet on 29 July 2020.
Conclusion
The 13th BRICS Education Ministers Meeting in Bhubaneswar reflects India's active role in multilateral education diplomacy. The focus on digital education, skill development, and research cooperation aligns with India's domestic education priorities and its ambition to position itself as a global knowledge hub.