The Project Management Institute (PMI) has announced its collaboration with Cannes Lions to launch the LIONS Educators Forum, a global initiative aimed at bridging the gap between academia and the creative industries. This Forum addresses the urgent need for educational institutions to align their curricula with the skills required in today's rapidly evolving, AI-driven economy. It will focus on two primary areas: developing future-ready curricula and enhancing pathways between education and employment. The Forum will feature global roundtables held twice a year and an in-person event during the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity in June 2026. This initiative will be chaired by Vann Graves, Executive Director of VCU Brandcenter, and aims to create a collaborative network for educators to share resources and insights. PMI's Chief Marketing Officer, Menaka Gopinath, highlighted the importance of equipping students with industry-aligned tools to succeed in the creative economy. The LIONS Educators Forum is part of a broader commitment to fostering lifelong learning and creative excellence within the marketing and communications sector.