Continental Conference on Transforming Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics in Africa
Building on the African Union's 2024 theme, , UNESCO and the African Union Commission (AUC), and key continental organizations are co-organizing this three-day conference to forge a continent-wide strategic partnership to build a transformative Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) ecosystem. This comprehensive approach, with a focus on addressing gender equality in STEM access and representation, coupled with strong collaboration among stakeholders, aims to position Africa as an equal player in the future of STEM education, innovation, entrepreneurship, and engineering.
This conference aims to identify the root causes of challenges hindering STEM education, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in Africa, and to develop effective strategies to overcome them and unlock the continent's development potential.
Key facts
Africa has the youngest population in the world, with over 400 million youth aged between 15 and 35 years. By 2030, young Africans will make up 42 percent of the world’s youth.
The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2023 indicates Africa needs an additional 23 million STEM graduates by 2030 to meet demand in engineering, healthcare and IT.
This conference responds to the urgent need for collaboration, strategic investments and inclusive policies to address challenges in STEM education and innovation. By mobilizing resources and fostering partnerships, the conference will pave the way for a dynamic STEM ecosystem that positions Africa as a global contributor to STEM research and development.
Key objectives
Promote STEM education today to build a skilled workforce for tomorrow
Empower girls to pursue careers in STEM for a gender-equal Africa
Unite for STEM! Cross-sectoral partnerships are key to building a sustainable STEM ecosystem
Invest in Africa's youth: 23 million STEM graduates are needed by 2030
More resources
- , UNESCO, 2024
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UNESCO, African Union Commission, ILO, Office of the Special Adviser on Africa, 2024 - , UNESCO, 2024
- , African Union Commission, 2024
In collaboration with
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