Challenges for Future Geography Education and the Role of the Commission on Geography Education of IGU

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the importance of geographical education in helping individuals navigate and influence complex global systems cannot be overstated. This chapter highlights geography’s unique interdisciplinary nature, synthesizing knowledge from natural and social sciences and empowering learners to tackle critical issues such as climate change and urbanization. Attention is devoted to the vital role of geography in twenty-first century education and to outlining the transformative efforts of the Commission on Geographical Education of the International Geographical Union (IGU-CGE). The chapter introduces the IGU-CGE’s strategic role in fostering global collaboration and promoting research-driven geographical education. It outlines five primary challenges that could hinder the optimal future of geographical education: the varied recognition and position of geography within curricula, the need for specialized geography teacher education, the integration of sustainability within geographical education, the impact of geographical associations, and the necessity of public engagement through media. Recommendations for addressing these challenges through IGU-CGE activities include making geography compulsory across all school levels, enhancing teacher qualifications, leveraging social and mass media for public education, and fostering international cooperation.