'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - The transformative power of education in shaping Africa’s future took center stage at the 4th Annual Public Lecture Series and the inaugural Pan African Academic Achievers Award, held on December 12, 2024, at Nicon Luxury Hotels, Abuja. With the theme “Educational Renaissance: The Future of Work and Economic Evolutions in Africa,” the event gathered policymakers, academics, entrepreneurs, and youth leaders to discuss how education can drive the continent’s economic and technological advancement.
Minister Advocates for Youth Empowerment through Education
Representing the Minister of Youth Development, Chief Obina Nwaka emphasized the Nigerian government’s commitment to empowering young people through education. He highlighted initiatives such as NELFUND, designed to encourage higher education enrollment, and the National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme, which ensures children are nourished for effective learning.
“Like Nigeria, young people across Africa are making waves, leveraging opportunities in education and innovation,” Nwaka said. He also underscored the role of practical education, stating, “Gone are those days of theoretical learning. Most educational institutions now focus on practical skills, including artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.”
Educational Renaissance as a Catalyst for Economic Growth
In his address, Amb. Prof. Tunji John Asaolu, the convener and founder of the African School of Diplomacy and International Relations, explored the theme's relevance in the context of Africa's developmental aspirations. He linked education reform to economic evolution, highlighting the need for modernized curricula and skills development in line with the African Union’s 2024 theme, “Educate and Skill Africa for the 21st Century.”
“By embracing an educational renaissance, Africa can harness knowledge, adapt to technological advancements, and seize opportunities in the global economy,” Asaolu noted. He celebrated the inaugural Pan African Academic Achievers Award as a platform to honor individuals and institutions advancing education and fostering innovation across the continent.
Awardees Highlight Innovation and Collaboration
George Omoraro, founder and CEO of Rage Next LTD, one of the awardees, praised the increasing collaboration among African youth in driving innovation.
“People are no longer competing but complementing each other. We are seeing the introduction of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and other platforms, and programs like this help harness Africa’s vast untapped potential,” Omoraro said.
He also pointed to the growing impact of the private sector in promoting education and economic evolution, adding, “Everything great takes time. The narrative is changing, and we are already seeing the fruits of our efforts.”
Honoring Excellence in Academia and Leadership
The event also recognized several distinguished individuals with honorary PhDs for their contributions to education, leadership, and socio-economic development. Awardees included Engr Meshach Maichibi, Mrs Mary Ishaya Afan (Mni), AVM Paul Irumheson, and Nollywood actress Lizzy Anjorin, among others.
Challenges and the Way Forward
Speakers at the event identified challenges such as underfunded education systems and uneven technological adoption but expressed optimism about Africa’s future. They called for stronger public-private sector partnerships and policies that promote inclusivity and innovation.
The event reinforced the importance of aligning education with the demands of the modern workforce, fostering skills that drive sustainable economic growth, and addressing socio-economic disparities.
As Africa navigates a rapidly evolving global landscape, platforms like the Pan African Academic Achievers Award play a pivotal role in inspiring excellence and fostering collaboration to shape a prosperous and inclusive future for the continent.
