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2026 Yidan Prize Recognition: Honoring Breakthrough Leaders in Education

On September 2, 2026, the Yidan Prize Foundation, known for its global philanthropic efforts, proudly revealed the laureates for the 2026 Yidan Prize during a press conference held in Hong Kong. This event marks a decade of the prize's commitment to endorsing education innovators around the world. Chaired by Andreas Schleicher, Director for Education and Skills at the OECD, the independent Judging Committee has acknowledged Professor Paul W. Glewwe as the 2026 Yidan Prize for Education Research Laureate. His groundbreaking work in shaping effective educational policies through rigorous research has significantly transformed the learning outcomes for children from vulnerable communities, offering promising paths for a healthier and more prosperous future.

In addition, the prize committee has honored Professor Susan P. Walker, Professor Sally Grantham-McGregor, and Dr. Susan M. Chang-Lopez as the 2026 Yidan Prize for Education Development Laureates for their innovative early childhood model that aims to change the developmental trajectories of children in low-resource, displaced, and indigenous communities. This collaborative effort recognizes the urgent need for sustainable educational frameworks that transcend geographical and socio-economic barriers.

Impactful Contributions and Awards

Each laureate will receive HK$30 million (approximately US$3.8 million), which includes a cash award and an unrestricted project fund aimed at facilitating their ongoing work and extending their reach in the spheres of education and child development. Since the inception of the Yidan Prize in 2017, the foundation has allocated a remarkable HK$600 million (around US$77 million) to 25 dedicated laureates, catalyzing transformative initiatives in nearly 60 countries.

"The dedicated work and significant impact demonstrated by our laureates has turned the Yidan Prize into a beacon of hope for global education, illuminating numerous pathways to the future," Dr. Charles CHEN Yidan, the founder of the Yidan Prize, stated. As we move towards a new phase of educational development, the Yidan Prize continues to uphold its mission of highlighting innovative, transformative, and sustainable practices with the potential to revolutionize education.

Pioneering Research and Enhanced Learning Outcomes

Professor Paul W. Glewwe, recognized for his research excellence, has dedicated much of his career to probing the intricate links between socio-economic factors, health, and nutrition and how these elements significantly influence children's educational performance. His pioneering contributions involve the integration of literacy and numeracy into the World Bank's household surveys, which allow for a broader understanding of the barriers faced by impoverished communities. Notably, his advocacy for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) has empowered governments and organizations to invest in strategies that demonstrably enhance learning.

Dr. Elizabeth M. King, the head of the Judging Panel for the Yidan Prize for Education Research, lauded Glewwe's invaluable contributions. She emphasized the critical nature of linking scientific rigor with dedication to effect positive societal change, stating, "For nearly 40 years, Paul has given governments the information they need to allocate resources wisely, equipping teachers and enhancing opportunities for countless vulnerable children."

Advancements in Early Childhood Education

Recognized for their pioneering work in early childhood intervention, Professor Susan P. Walker, Professor Sally Grantham-McGregor, and Dr. Susan M. Chang-Lopez have played pivotal roles in designing the Reach Up program. This evidence-based model aims to foster early development during the crucial years from birth to age four. By equipping caregivers with low-cost, culturally adaptive strategies for stimulating children's development within daily activities, the program aims to improve cognitive outcomes on a global scale. Today, Reach Up is making strides in over 21 countries, tackling educational disparities in various regions, including the Caribbean, Latin America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

In congratulating the laureates, Dorothy K. Gordon, head of the Judging Panel for the Yidan Prize for Education Development, acknowledged their unwavering commitment to promoting children's educational rights. She expressed admiration for their work and stated, "These groundbreaking contributions can ensure that future generations of children have equitable opportunities in education and life."

Yidan Prize Summit: A Forum for Discussion

The 2026 Yidan Prize laureates will take part in a three-day summit that will permeate discussions around the future of education, focussing on leveraging learning as a key driver for flourishing ecosystems that emphasize human connection amid the age of AI. Scheduled from December 3 to 5, 2026, the summit promises to be an enriching experience culminating with an awards ceremony, where the laureates will formally be recognized for their outstanding achievements.

The Yidan Prize Foundation continues to strive towards boosting educational innovation and fostering a global community of changemakers. Through collaboration, evidence-based practices, and inclusive policies, the foundation seeks to ensure a brighter, more equitable future for education across the globe.

For more information about the Yidan Prize and its laureates, please visit yidanprize.org or connect via social media @yidanprize.