Last week, the team from 9X5 Consulting attended the ICT in Schools Summit 2026 at Marvel Stadium, showcasing how solutions like Education360 are helping schools simplify operations, strengthen visibility and create more connected learning environments, alongside our partners at ManageEngine.
Bringing together ICT leaders, principals, digital learning teams and education technology providers from across the K–12 sector, the summit focused heavily on the evolving role technology now plays in supporting both operational efficiency and student outcomes.
Across the day, one thing became very clear: schools are navigating a rapidly changing digital landscape, and the conversation is no longer just about adopting new technology, it’s about implementing the right technology strategically, securely and sustainably.
The Key Conversations Across the Summit
AI in Education: Opportunity vs Responsibility
One of the biggest themes throughout the summit was the rapid evolution of AI within schools. Discussions explored how schools are beginning to integrate AI into teaching, learning and administration while also navigating the challenges that come with it. There was a strong focus on responsible implementation, governance, policy development and ensuring schools are prepared for long-term AI integration without compromising cybersecurity, compliance or operational stability.
A major takeaway from these conversations was that many schools are currently trying to balance the excitement around AI capabilities with the practical realities of managing risk, protecting data and maintaining clear operational frameworks.
Aligning Technology With Educational Outcomes
Another major focus throughout the summit was ensuring technology investments genuinely support educational outcomes rather than becoming disconnected from classroom needs.
Sessions explored how schools are approaching digital ecosystems, cloud infrastructure, operational visibility and data-driven decision making, while also navigating the increasing complexity of managing multiple platforms, applications and devices across campuses. There were also important conversations around responsible parent engagement with technology and the growing challenge of “shadow IT” within school environments.
Many ICT leaders spoke about the need for stronger alignment between operational systems, teaching environments and long-term strategic planning.
Cybersecurity Continues To Be Front Of Mind
Cyber resilience also remained a central theme across the summit.
As schools continue expanding their digital infrastructure, many leaders are reassessing how they manage access control, device management, threat monitoring, governance and long-term security planning. The conversation has clearly shifted beyond reactive IT support toward proactive risk management and long-term operational resilience.
A Valuable Day Connecting With The Education Sector
Events like the ICT in Schools Summit are important because they create space for practical, honest conversations around the real challenges schools are facing today.
It was fantastic to connect with so many educators, ICT professionals and school leaders throughout the day, and to hear firsthand how schools across Victoria are approaching digital transformation, AI adoption and operational innovation.
A big thank you to everyone who stopped by to chat with the 9X5 and ManageEngine teams. We’re proud to continue supporting schools through secure, practical and people-focused technology solutions and we’re already looking forward to the next conversation.
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