91�鶹������Ʒ����

High-level discussions 

Higher Education ministers from Egypt, Kenya, Gabon, Senegal, and Uganda also attended the forum. They shared insights on policy advancements and regional collaboration, underscoring the importance of multilateral efforts in transforming Africa’s education landscape. 

Youth voices also took center stage, with powerful contributions from participants such as Ahirirwe Leticia, a CFIT beneficiary from Uganda, who remarked, “As young people, we are not just the leaders of tomorrow; we are the leaders of today.” Her sentiments were echoed by Rachel Kamana, who envisioned an Africa where young people build their futures within the continent. 

Spotlight on key initiatives 

The forum highlighted two of UNESCO’s flagship initiatives: Campus Africa and the UNESCO-China Funds-in-Trust (CFIT) Project. Campus Africa fosters collaboration and mobility within African universities, while CFIT focuses on enhancing higher technical education to address regional development needs. 

Around 13,000 students and 800 teachers benefitted from the CFIT Project implemented in six countries: Côte d'Ivoire, Ethiopia, Gabon, Senegal, United Republic of Tanzania, and Uganda. 

The 10th anniversary of the Addis Convention, which promotes the mutual recognition of academic qualifications across Africa, was a significant milestone celebrated during the event. Since its adoption in 2014, 14 African nations have ratified the Convention, establishing frameworks for academic mobility and regional collaboration. These efforts have enabled initiatives such as joint-degree programmes between Côte d'Ivoire and Senegal, which strengthen regional market relevance and mobility. 

Unlocking Africa’s potential  

Africa, home to the world’s youngest population, faces pressing challenges in higher education. The Forum started with an assessment of the current state of higher education in the continent. Top of the agenda was the employment gaps and the need to enhance cooperation between the industry and the universities. 

Currently, only 9.4% of youth in sub-Saharan Africa are enrolled in higher education, far below the global average of 38%. The region allocates just 0.78% of GDP to research and development, compared to the global average of 1.93%. 

Youth unemployment and underemployment rates remain alarmingly high, with 31% of young people either unemployed or in low-skill occupations. 

UNESCO aims to bridge these gaps by promoting education systems aligned with market demands, fostering academia-industry partnerships, and advocating for increased investment in research and development. 

Knowledge sharing: Enhancing higher education for market relevance 

Participants explored strategies to align education systems with labor market demands. Some counties shared successful policies and implementation of the CFIT project. The project has strengthened University-Industry collaboration in the six countries it has been implemented.  

Initiatives such as Senegal’s REIS network and Tanzania’s engineers’ conference exemplify successful partnerships. 

Participants also mentioned the need to modernize the curriculum to ensure its alignment with the market needs.  

Institutions like Makerere University and Addis Ababa University conducted market studies and curriculum reviews to align programs with emerging industry demands. 

Gabon on the other hand, has introduced new degree, such as   real estate degree, whereas Addis Ababa's technology-focused programmes have been presented as good examples of an alignment with the need of the industry. 

Mobility and regional integration: The Addis Convention 

The forum also emphasized the importance of fostering student and academic mobility within Africa. Supporting inter-university cooperation, easing visa restrictions, and increasing cultural integration were identified as crucial steps. UNESCO reiterated its commitment to scaling up the implementation of the Addis Convention by advocating for ratification among non-signatory countries and enhancing collaboration between national quality assurance agencies. 

The path forward 

UNESCO’s initiatives in higher education are critical to addressing Africa’s education and employment challenges. By investing in research, strengthening partnerships, and fostering mobility, the continent can unlock its vast potential. The forum’s discussions and outcomes mark a significant step toward sustainable development and a brighter future for Africa’s youth.