Embracing Nelson Mandela’s wisdom that “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” underscores the critical role education plays in shaping Africa’s future.

As the continent experiences unprecedented growth, with its population set to reach 2.5 billion by 2050, investing in quality education becomes paramount.

The statistics from UNESCO reveal a concerning reality, with over one-fifth of children aged 6 to 11 in Sub-Saharan Africa out of school, along with one-third of youth aged 12 to 14. Additionally, nearly 60% of young people aged 15 to 17 are not enrolled in educational institutions. This situation calls for urgency to address the educational gaps and ensure every young African has access to quality learning opportunities.

Despite the education challenges on the continent, progress has been made. Namibia, Libya, Zimbabwe, Ivory Coast, and South Africa have witnessed notable achievements, with literacy rates reaching as high as 92%.

Over the past decade, African governments and development partners have committed unprecedented efforts to guarantee that no child is left behind in accessing education.

This year’s African Union theme, “Educate an African fit for the 21st Century: Building resilient education systems for increased access to inclusive, lifelong, quality, and relevant learning in Africa,” reflects a collective commitment to shaping a future-ready African generation.

We applaud the African Union, governments, and development partners for prioritising education, acknowledging that it is a key driver for progress, innovation, and societal transformation in the 21st century.

Together, we strive towards building resilient education systems that empower every African with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.