This Open access book consists of the proceedings of the Institute for the Future of Education (IFE) Conference 2026. The contributions therein showcase the distinctive innovations emerging from Latin America, challenging the traditionally North-centric narratives in educational research and spotlighting the region’s unique strengths and perspectives. By prioritizing a South-to-South perspective and highlighting the integration of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), the proceedings broaden the scope of educational innovation discourse and empower local scholars to contribute meaningfully to the global academic landscape. This book enables readers to gain an understanding of how educational innovations are uniquely implemented and sustained in Latin America and other similar regions. It provides practical insights and evidence-based strategies adaptable to similar socio-economic contexts, empowering educators and policymakers to implement practical changes in their own settings. By highlighting successful South-to-South initiatives and integrating advanced technologies like AI, this book fosters a more inclusive and diverse dialogue on educational innovation. 

Elvira G. Rincon-Flores holds a Ph.D. in Education Sciences from the University of Salamanca (USAL, Spain), graduating cum laude. She is a researcher in the Department of Experimentation and Impact Measurement at the Institute for the Future of Education, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Mexico, where she also serves as a professor and thesis advisor.

Luis Portales Derbez has authored seven books and published more than thirty articles in peer-reviewed, indexed journals. Additionally, he has participated in over fifty academic conferences. Throughout his career, he has led applied research projects employing the Action Research methodology, which has not only contributed to academic knowledge but also aimed at enhancing the well-being of individuals in vulnerable circumstances. He was a research professor at the University of Monterrey (UDEM), Mexico, where he directed the Center for Well-being Studies and co-founded the Social Transformation Lab.

Francisco José García-Peñalvo is a full professor in the Department of Computer Science and Automation at the University of Salamanca (USAL, Spain), with four six-year periods of recognized research, one six-year period of recognized transferring and innovation, and five five-year periods of recognized teaching. He received the Gloria Begué Award for teaching excellence in 2019 and the Maria de Maeztu Award for research excellence in 2023.

Juanjo Mena is an associate professor and head of the Department of Education at the University of Salamanca (USAL, Spain). He completed his Master degree (with honors) in the Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology in 2004, and obtained his Ph.D. with distinction and special mention of 'European Doctor' in 2007. He is also Treasurer and National Representative of the International Study Association on Teachers and Teaching (ISATT).

María Soledad Ramírez-Montoya is a research professor at EGADE (Escuela de Graduados en Administración y Dirección de Empresas) Business School and the Institute for the Future of Education, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Level 3 in the National System of Researchers, Mexico. She focuses her activities on the dynamization of initiatives for education, with innovation, research, and global sense, as a means of social transformation and impact for lifelong learning and sustainable development.