Governments must "move beyond words of recognition" and commit to long-term reform in First Nations education, a national body of educators has declared.

The Utyerre Apanpe First Nations Educators Network — which describes itself as a national body upholding cultural and professional excellence in education — issued the call after its annual forum in Darwin at the weekend.

Held on Larrakia Country, the seventh gathering brought together more than 60 Elders, cultural professors, senior educators and emerging leaders, with the aim of advancing a First Nations-led education system and progressing reforms outlined in the M.K. Turner Report, authored by Alice Springs-based organisation Children's Ground.

"We are advancing a national pathway designed by our educators and grounded in Cultural authority," the Network said in a statement.

"We are building the structures that will sustain this work for generations to come."

Calling for urgent government action, they argued: "We now call on governments to move beyond words of recognition. The M.K. Turner Report has been presented. The evidence is clear. It is time to implement its recommendations through lasting investment and partnership."

Children's Ground argued the report offers six key recommendations for governments to establish "a First Nations-led education system as the key to reversing the failure of mainstream schooling" and create "a future where all children grow strong in identity, language and culture".

The Network said Indigenous knowledge systems remain vital.

"They are carried in our languages, our Country and our communities. They are the foundation for children to thrive in their identity and to walk confidently in two worlds," they said.

"Education is part of our Cultures. Education belongs to our people. We will continue to design and deliver it our way and we call on governments to commit to this future with us."

Wakka Wakka woman and Network member Jo Wilmott OAM said ahead of the forum Australia must adopt First Nations learning models to ensure all children can succeed.

"Our children prosper when their learning begins in the spirit and vision of our ancestors, who carried lore and culture through the essence of language and expression," she said.

"This spirit endures in us, shaping how we teach and how we learn. It is our cultural responsibility to uphold this legacy, ensuring First Nations knowledge and practice remain the foundation of education."