UFI Learning
Event education, education, education
International association UFI takes the industry eduation piece to a new strategic level
FI, the global association of
U the exhibition industry’ s new Strategy on Learning reflects the growing importance of professional development across the exhibition industry. Developed in consultation with UFI members, the strategy sets out how UFI will integrate learning across everything it does to better support the global exhibition community.
The strategy was developed, the association says, following research and consultation with members, including feedback gathered through a dedicated survey. This work highlighted the growing importance of learning that is practical and grounded in real industry practice, as well as the value placed on learning through peer exchange, collaboration and exposure to real-world challenges.
One example is UFI Exhibition Essentials, a programme designed to provide a foundational overview of the exhibition lifecycle and the key drivers behind successful events. The next virtual edition will take place 7 – 15 April, bringing together professionals from across the industry to strengthen their understanding of how exhibitions succeed in practice. More information about the programme is available at www. ufi. org / learning.
“ The practical insights into event strategy and operations were the most valuable part of the course. I especially appreciated how the programme connected theory with real-world examples, giving me a clearer understanding of how to apply best
practices in professional settings,” was the view of one participant through the Tahaluf Academy in August 2025.
Senior professionals also engage through initiatives such as the UFI Event Directors Summit, which brings together event directors to exchange insight and experience. As one recent participant noted:“ The UFI Event Directors Summit offers a remarkable atmosphere and valuable networking opportunities.
It’ s a must-attend for anyone working in exhibition management.”
As UFI Learning continues to evolve, UFI will introduce new programmes and opportunities designed to support professionals at every stage of their careers. The aim is to encourage a culture of continuous learning across the global exhibition community. Chris Skeith OBE, CEO and managing director of UFI, says:“ Learning happens every day across our industry. Given UFI’ s global position and network – we have an opportunity to support this learning in a more consistent and meaningful way.”
Skeith emphasises the new strategy ensures that learning is grounded in real industry practice and directly relevant to challenges faced by the industry in a rapidly changing professional environment.
UFI Learning can be described as a portfolio guided by three strategic priorities:
• Increasing access and flexibility
• Leveraging industry expertise and partnerships
• Curating engaging and relevant learning opportunities.
UFI’ s educational offerings cover a broad area, with its Knowledge Hub of studies and statistics, including the Global Exhibition Barometer), UFI Exhibition Essentials( mentioned above), the UFI Next Genertion Leadership Progamme, designed to foster emerging leaders, and a system of Working Groups across key industry subjects, such as sustainability, innovation and marketing.
There are also learning opportunities through UFI at events such as the Global CEO Summit, regional conferences, Event Directors Summit, UFI Insight Series and the annual Global Congress, scheduled for 2-5 November, 2026, in Bahrain. EW
n To learn more about UFI Learning opportunities, visit: www. ufi. org / learning. www. exhibitionworld. co. uk Issue 2 2026 41