Day Three of the International Study Association on Teachers and Teaching(ISATT) Regional Conference 2026
The third day of the conference was marked by a series of distinguished keynote presentations that advanced critical discourse on storytelling, sustainability and teacher education.
Professor Sheryl delivered the opening keynote on “Sustainability, Story and Teacher Well-being.” In her address, she examined the enduring significance of narrative in shaping human experience, observing that individuals are sustained and defined by the stories they inhabit. Drawing on the seminal works of John Dewey (1908) and Philip Jackson (1968), among other scholars, she demonstrated the deep interconnection between educational theory and narrative traditions. She concluded with the thought-provoking assertion: “The universe is not made up of atoms, but of stories,” thereby reaffirming the centrality of storytelling within educational practice and human existence.
The second keynote address was delivered by Professor John Adele of the University of Lagos, Nigeria, who introduced the Africa Arts Association. He outlined the Association’s mission and guiding philosophy, encapsulated in its slogan, “We are because of Africa.” He further noted that membership is open to both professional and teaching artists, with prospective members eligible to join upon payment of a prescribed fee.
Professor Juanjo Mena, Chairperson of ISATT, subsequently presented an overview of the Society’s mandate and activities, alongside a historical account of its evolution and contributions to the advancement of teacher education. His presentation formally concluded the keynote sessions for the day.
Thereafter, participants proceeded to parallel sessions convened in smaller thematic groups, facilitating in-depth scholarly engagement, dialogue and exchange.
