Abuja, Nigeria – African student leaders and stakeholders gathered in Abuja, Nigeria, for the Africa Student Leaders General Assembly and Ordinary Congress, themed “Pro-Africa Education System: A Key to Unlocking Africa’s Potentials.” The event aimed to address the continent’s pressing challenges through education reform.

The conference, which brought together delegates from several African countries, was organized by the All African Students Union (AASU) in collaboration with Rhapsody of Realities Reachout World Day, NNPC, Weldios University, and other partners.

Vice President Kashim Shettima emphasized the importance of integrating indigenous knowledge into Africa’s education systems. “Our education system must be rooted in African realities while reaching out for global excellence. It must address our challenges while celebrating our strengths,” he said.

Shettima, who was represented by his Senior Special Assistant, Mahmud Muhammed, urged African students to embrace the realities of the continent while striving for global excellence. “We must ensure that our education becomes holistic, addressing not just academic knowledge, but also practical skills and critical thinking as well as solutions to real-world problems,” he said.

Professor David Namwandi, former Namibian Minister of Education and founder of the International University of Management, delivered the keynote address. He echoed Shettima’s sentiments, highlighting the need for a robust, practical approach to education. “We must adopt a pro-African curriculum that prioritizes African history, culture, and innovation while embracing global advancements,” Namwandi said.

Namwandi emphasized the importance of technology integration, richer research, and innovation in driving Africa’s education system forward. “As the world becomes increasingly digitalized, Africa must leverage technology to expand access to education through e-learning platforms and digital resources,” he said.

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement, Comrade Asefon Sunday Dayo, described the event as a “clarion call to ignite a transformative renaissance in Africa’s education system.” He emphasized the commitment of President Bola Tinubu to education reform, citing the establishment of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund as a testament to this commitment.

Asefon encouraged all delegates to engage actively, share ideas, and forge lasting partnerships during the assembly. “Your voices and contributions are critical to building a prosperous Africa where education serves as the cornerstone of development,” he said.

The assembly provided a platform for African student leaders to deliberate, innovate, and proffer solutions to the multifaceted challenges impeding the educational and socio-economic emancipation of the continent.

As Akinteye Afeez, Senate President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), noted, “This assembly offers an unparalleled platform to deliberate, innovate, and proffer solutions to the multifaceted challenges impeding the educational and socio-economic emancipation of our people.”

The event featured presentations, panel discussions, and workshops focused on addressing the challenges facing Africa’s education system. Delegates also had the opportunity to engage with stakeholders, including government officials, educators, and industry experts.

The Africa Student Leaders General Assembly and Ordinary Congress was a significant step towards revolutionizing Africa’s education system. As the continent continues to grapple with the challenges of poverty, inequality, and unemployment, it is clear that education will play a critical role in unlocking Africa’s vast potential.

This post has already been read at least168 times!