DevEd 2025 announces first keynote speaker

ACER is delighted to announce Chris Hines, Education lead for National Geographic’s Pristine Seas, as the first keynote speaker for the inaugural Development and Education (DevEd) 2025 conference at the State Library Victoria from 11-13 November.

From the vibrant coral ecosystems of the Solomon Islands to the deep-sea discoveries made aboard the M/V Argo, Chris will showcase how Pristine Seas is working with Indigenous communities, governments and educators to bring the ocean into classrooms and communities.

In his keynote address, Exploring the Blue Pacific: Ocean Science and Literacy, Chris will share lessons  that aim to inspire young people to take action for ocean conservation. Drawing on National Geographic’s Pristine Seas expeditions throughout the Pacific, the keynote will feature innovative curriculum co-creation in Palau, youth research in Tuvalu, and an education expedition in the Solomon Islands.

The session will provide an important forum for discussion on the power of local and regional partnerships that enable ocean literacy, climate-responsive education and deeper engagement in communities throughout the Pacific.

Pristine Seas uses a combination of science, policy, education, filmmaking, expeditions and communications to help protect the ocean. The session will also showcase short films produced in collaboration with Pacific educators and highlight free National Geographic resources available to teachers around the world.

‘I am delighted to participate in the inaugural DevEd 2025 conference,’ said Chris Hines. ‘I look forward to meaningful discussions about how education can result in real action on the challenges facing the region.’

While grounded in the Pacific, Chris’ keynote also speaks to the broader Asia-Pacific region and the importance of the ocean that connects it. Linking island nations, coastal communities and inland regions, the ocean presents shared challenges and opportunities for collaboration. This session will highlight how Pacific-led innovation and storytelling can help shape region-wide approaches to education, sustainability and community empowerment.

‘We look at the ocean as something that brings us, binds us together,’ said Mr Tung-Lam Saul, State Legislator, Pohnpei.

DevEd 2025 is the first conference of its kind to bring together educators, researchers, policy leaders, and development partners from across the Asia-Pacific. It offers a dynamic platform to explore education systems that are inclusive, resilient, and relevant in the face of regional challenges.

Chris Hines’ keynote will be one of several featured sessions designed to spark cross-regional collaboration and deepen the role of education in responding to environmental and social change.

‘I appreciate the opportunity to share how our work at Pristine Seas aligns with the themes of DevEd 2025 and a regional focus on ocean literacy, equipping educators and inspiring learners,’ said Chris.

Early bird registration is now open until 29 August. Do not miss the opportunity to be part of this transformative event and help shape the future of education the Asia-Pacific region.

Register now at www.deved.org

Watch this video about Pristine Seas work across the Pacific.