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Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning

Education is the key to achieving this government's ambition of a smarter Scotland. I want every pupil, student and worker to have the chance to learn, develop new skills and play a full part in it.

Teachers, lecturers and education specialists all have a crucial role in developing the skills, talents and capabilities of our future generations.

That's why it's crucial that those involved in providing education take the time and opportunity to ensure their own skills are at the cutting edge of their profession.

The Scottish Learning Festival is a real opportunity to get to grips with the latest developments in education, to swap ideas and to learn from experts in the field.

I gained much from my attendance at the event last September and was impressed by the enthusiasm for learning that was on display.

It is inspiring to know that so many of these exciting ideas are already making a difference to pupils, students and adult learners across the country, driving up standards, opening up new learning experiences and contributing to making Scotland smarter.