Education research associations have been at the forefront of promoting and raising awareness on matters of core importance in the education sector. It is however a known fact that the key foci of these research associations sometime vary considerably in terms of what is deemed as priority. This symposium presents multiple perspectives form the Presidents of education research associations on what the current thinking and trends in education are in their respective countries and regions. The Presidents also discuss issues of thematic foci and the factors that determine this. Furthermore, highlights and challenges of their membership drive, governance structures and participations are examined. This symposium is geared to be a learning curve for individuals and organisations involved in education research on current thinking from various regions and adaptable best practices that can be emulated.