GPE renews its commitment to civil society with appointment of Oxfam Denmark as grant agent for the next phase of Education Out Loud

COPENHAGEN/WASHINGTON D.C., June 8, 2026

At its Board meeting on June 4, 2026, the Board of Directors of the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) invited Oxfam Denmark to develop a program proposal as grant agent for the new phase of Education Out Loud – the largest global fund dedicated to supporting civil society advocacy and social accountability in education. The Board also approved an initial allocation of funds to the program, ensuring continuity of support to civil society partners. This decision comes at an important moment as GPE mobilizes support for its next replenishment, underscoring the continued importance of investing in civil society.

“At a time when many donors are tightening their budgets, GPE’s decision to maintain its support for civil society is both important and welcome. Civil society is essential for holding governments accountable for quality education, and it is an honour and a great pleasure for Oxfam Denmark to once again be entrusted with the role of grant agent — supporting civil society organizations worldwide in this crucial work,” said Lars Koch, Secretary General, Oxfam Denmark.

Since 2019, Education Out Loud has supported civil society organizations in more than 60 countries, contributing to over 270 national policy changes that strengthen education systems. GPE has a longstanding commitment to civil society, having invested in strengthening civil society engagement in education for more than 17 years, previously through the Civil Society Education Fund (CSEF).

“Engaged local civil society organizations are crucial to ensuring that education systems are inclusive and responsive to the needs of the most marginalized populations. GPE’s decision to continue supporting civil society organizations in a volatile funding environment sends a strong signal of recognition to education advocates worldwide,” said Laura Frigenti, CEO of GPE. We are delighted to continue working with Oxfam Denmark, which has demonstrated the ability to take on this role with a commitment to support the organizations we work with.” 

The next phase of Education Out Loudwill begin in January 2027 and has an initial grant allocation of USD 45 million.

‘The education sector faces major challenges, but I am impressed every day by what our civil society partners achieve. It is a pleasure and a privilege to be able to support them in these endeavours through Education Out Loud,’ said Lars Udsholt, Global Programme Manager for Education Out Loud at Oxfam Denmark.

For more information:
Tamara Kummer, GPE Head of Communications tkummer@globalpartnership.org
Malene Aadal Bo, Oxfam Denmark Education Out Loud Communications Advisor mab@oxfam.dk