In a global context where millions of children and young people still lack access to adequate education, the collaboration between Italy, Nigeria and the Global Partnership for Education demonstrates how political dialogue and targeted investments can help create greater opportunities for development, growth and stability for future generations.
The Global Partnership for Education (GPE) event dedicated to the “Multiply Possibility” campaign was one of the most significant moments of the United Nations General Assembly in New York for financing education in low and middle-income countries.
The campaign successfully mobilized a total of US$3.5 billion in support of global education, exceeding initial expectations and with the prospect of further growth as additional contributions are finalized.
Particularly well received was the announcement of Italy’s decision to double its contribution to GPE for the 2026-2030 cycle, reaffirming the country’s commitment to ensuring access to quality education for millions of children and young people around the world.
The event was co-chaired by Antonio Tajani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy, and Kashim Shettima, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
A particularly memorable moment followed the Italian announcement, which was met with a warm standing ovation. The Nigerian delegation expressed strong appreciation for Italy’s enhanced commitment, and Vice President Shettima stood out for his cordiality and attention to participants throughout the event.
The photograph captures the handshake between Vice President Shettima and Deputy Prime Minister Tajani, in the presence of Jakaya Kikwete, former President of Tanzania and current Chair of the GPE Board.
