Sal Khan: Local solutions key to global challenges

September 10, 2025 / 4:17 PM

Sharjah 24 – Speaking on the sidelines of the 14th International Government Communication Forum (IGCF 2025), organised by the Sharjah Government Bureau (SGMB) on September 10–11 at Expo Centre Sharjah under the theme "Communication for Quality of Life", two globally recognised voices—Sal Khan, founder and CEO of Khan Academy shared powerful insights on how education, effective communication, and local innovation can drive meaningful global change.

Sal Khan emphasised his deep commitment to education, describing it as the most powerful tool for tackling the world’s most pressing challenges. “Growing up, like many young people, I saw countless problems in the world — poverty, inequality, conflict,” he told Sharjah 24. “And when you dig deep into the root causes of almost any global issue, you often find education at the core.”

Khan stressed that many people feel disempowered or unable to contribute to their communities simply because they lack access to quality learning opportunities. He highlighted the transformative potential of technology in making world-class education more accessible than ever before. “I’m not claiming education alone can solve every problem,” he added, “but without it, solving any of the world’s challenges becomes infinitely more difficult.”

Khan’s insights reaffirm the importance of investing in education, fostering communication, and empowering grassroots innovation as pillars of a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable future.