education

Africa stands at a crossroads, one brimming with potential yet fraught with challenges. With the global landscape shifting rapidly, the call to adapt has never been more urgent. Professor Berhanu Nega, Ethiopia’s Education Minister, articulated this necessity eloquently during the closing ceremony of the Innovation Africa 2025 Summit, held in the heart of Addis Ababa last Wednesday. His words echoed through the hall: “Are we Africans going to continue down the same path as in the past, or will we confront this emerging…

In a striking opening to her inaugural State of the Nation address, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah unveiled a vision that could reshape the educational landscape. The cornerstone of her proposal? A remarkable 100% government subsidy for tertiary education, set to take effect in the 2026 academic year. Such an initiative sparks excitement, evoking a sense of hope among countless students dreaming of higher education. The prospect of a debt-free educational journey potentially transforms lives and futures. One can't help…

In a poignant gesture that acknowledges a challenging past, French President Emmanuel Macron recently articulated his intent to seek “forgiveness” for France’s colonial domination over Madagascar. This statement comes as part of a broader commitment to revisit the historical narrative, beginning with the return of cultural artifacts looted during the colonial era. Madagascar, with its rich tapestry of history and heritage, endured French colonial rule from 1896 until it regained full sovereignty in 1960. This period marked…

The Transformative Power of Online Education in Africa Access to quality education remains a formidable challenge for many across the African continent. Education, often touted as the great equalizer, is still hindered by an array of obstacles. Teacher shortages, overcrowded classrooms, and inadequate infrastructure combine to create an environment that is less than conducive to learning. Yet, in this age of rapid technological advancement, a new answer is emerging: online schooling. With greater access…

Across South Africa, an outpouring of voices rose in unison as thousands of students, activists, and concerned citizens took to the streets. Their rallying cry? Justice for a seven-year-old girl from the Eastern Cape, who suffered the unimaginable—a rape committed within the supposed safety of her school in October 2024. It’s a moment that has sparked outrage and galvanized a nation. The protesters weren’t merely expressing anger; they delivered heartfelt memoranda to education officials, demanding immediate action. Calls…

In a significant move amid a gathering of educators and students, President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order aimed at reshaping the federal Department of Education—a step that fulfills a long-standing promise to conservative supporters. The initiative is poised to shift educational decision-making power primarily to states and local boards, a prospect that has raised concerns among advocates for public education. During the signing ceremony in the East Room of the White House, President Trump remarked, "We're…

Mohamed's journey is a compelling narrative of ambition and purpose, driven by the desire to make substantial contributions to his homeland, especially in the arena of education. Reflecting on his motivations, Mohamed noted, “My priority was to invest in myself. I wanted to get out into the wider world so that I could make a real difference and change things for the next generation when it comes to access to education.” His educational voyage commenced in 2014, when he embarked on a master's degree in…

Education serves as a cornerstone of national development, influencing diverse aspects such as economic growth, social mobility, and even technological advancement. We often find ourselves pondering an age-old question: How does education mold the future of a nation? It's an inquiry not just of policy and numbers but one that touches the very essence of societal progress. As philosopher and educator John Dewey famously said, "Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself." Across the vast and…

In a significant move to honor the historical legacy and contributions of marginalized groups, a new inscription in the lxam language has been etched into the façade of Rhodes House at Oxford University. This endeavor acknowledges the tribulations and relentless labor of those whose hardships ultimately contributed to Cecil Rhodes’ immense wealth. The lxam inscription was skillfully crafted by Fergus Wessel, a stone mason hailing from the UK, whose work is steeped in the traditions of the English Arts and Crafts movement.…

Libya and Somalia Forge a Path to Collaborative Growth In the vibrant city of Tripoli, a series of strategic agreements were recently inked, casting new light on the burgeoning partnership between Libya and Somalia. These agreements, encapsulated in several Memoranda of Understanding, aim to fortify collaboration across key domains such as investments, educational exchanges, and training opportunities. But what does this mean for the socio-economic fabric of these two nations?…