Emerging markets are reshaping the future of global education. From rapid population growth to increasing demand for quality learning materials, countries across Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East are becoming key growth areas for education publishers and institutions worldwide.
For international publishers and educational decision-makers, understanding these trends is essential, not only to expand market reach but also to contribute meaningfully to improving education outcomes.
Growing Student Population Driving Demand for Education
One of the most significant trends in emerging markets is demographic growth. Many developing regions are experiencing rapid population increases, particularly among school-age children.
According to UNESCO, 75% of Africa’s population is under the age of 35, making education a critical driver of future economic growth and development. This demographic shift is expected to significantly increase demand for quality learning materials and education systems in the coming decades.
At the same time, UNESCO reports that 110 million more children and youth have entered school since 2015, reflecting growing access to education globally. However, 251 million children and youth worldwide remain out of school, highlighting both progress and ongoing challenges in education access.
In Southeast Asia alone, 18 million children and teenagers remain out of school, demonstrating that access to quality education remains uneven across emerging markets.
Learning Quality Becoming the New Global Priority
While access to education is improving, learning quality remains a major challenge in emerging markets.
Recent global education data released by UNESCO highlights persistent gaps in learning outcomes, literacy, and numeracy skills across regions. Education systems are increasingly shifting focus from school enrollment to learning effectiveness and outcomes.
This shift is particularly important as governments and institutions recognize that school attendance alone does not guarantee learning success.
In addition, UNESCO’s 2026 education data refresh reveals that only 62% of young people globally complete upper secondary education, with completion rates significantly lower in developing regions, including 29% in Sub-Saharan Africa.
For publishers, this creates opportunities to develop learning materials that focus on competency-based education.
Increasing Focus on Literacy and Numeracy Skills
Foundational skills such as literacy and numeracy are becoming central priorities in emerging markets.
Global education initiatives aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) emphasize improving literacy and numeracy as key drivers of economic development and lifelong learning.
Despite improvements, many countries still face challenges in foundational learning outcomes, particularly in early education.
The growing emphasis on foundational skills is driving demand for:
- Structured reading programmes
- Concept-based mathematics learning
- Competency-focused curriculum materials
Digital Transformation Accelerating Education Growth
Digital learning is rapidly transforming education across emerging markets.
Countries are increasingly adopting:
- Digital learning platforms
- Hybrid classroom models
- Interactive learning content
This transformation is driven by:
- Expanding internet penetration
- Government digital education initiatives
- Demand for flexible learning solutions
UNESCO highlights digital transformation as one of the key global education priorities, particularly in addressing access challenges and improving learning outcomes in underserved communities.
For publishers, this creates new opportunities to:
- Develop digital-ready content
- Offer blended learning materials
- Support interactive learning experiences
Rising Importance of Skills for Future Workforce
Emerging markets are also prioritizing education aligned with workforce development.
According to OECD’s Trends Shaping Education 2025, global education systems are increasingly focusing on skills such as:
- Critical thinking
- Problem-solving
- Collaboration
- Creativity
These skills are becoming essential as economies transition toward knowledge-based industries and digital transformation.
This shift is influencing curriculum development and creating demand for:
- Competency-based learning materials
- Integrated learning approaches
- Holistic education programmes
Increasing Investment in Education
Governments in emerging markets are increasingly investing in education to support long-term economic growth.
Education is widely recognized as a key driver of:
- Economic productivity
- Workforce development
- Social mobility
At the same time, international organizations and partnerships are supporting education reforms and innovation across developing regions.
This creates opportunities for:
- Cross-border publishing collaboration
- Education partnerships
- Curriculum development projects
Opportunities for International Publishers
Emerging markets offer strong growth potential for international publishers and education partners.
Key opportunities include:
- Expanding demand for foundational learning materials
- Growing student populations
- Increasing digital education adoption
- Government education reform initiatives
- Rising focus on skills-based learning
Publishers that can provide:
- High-quality content
- Flexible learning solutions
- Global-standard educational materials
will be well positioned to support education development in these markets.
The Future of Education in Emerging Markets
Education in emerging markets is evolving rapidly. While challenges remain, the growing demand for quality education presents significant opportunities for collaboration and innovation.
As education systems continue to develop, partnerships between publishers, schools, and institutions will play an important role in shaping the future of learning.
For global education stakeholders, emerging markets are not only growth opportunities, they are also opportunities to contribute to building stronger education systems and future-ready generations.
About ASTA Ilmu Publishing
ASTA Ilmu Publishing, part of Mentari Group, is an Indonesian educational publisher specialising in integrated K–12 textbooks and storybooks. In collaboration with experienced educators, writers, and illustrators from diverse international backgrounds, we develop programmes grounded in internationally recognised methodologies to create effective and meaningful learning experiences. Today, our books are licensed and distributed in over 25 countries.