Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey has emphasized the crucial need for African heads of state to prioritize education as a vital investment in the continent’s future.
Addressing delegates at the opening ceremony of the 6th AU Mid-Year Coordinating Meeting at the International Conference Centre in Accra on Thursday July 18, she stressed that education is the backbone of every nation, essential for empowering the youth and building a resilient and competitive continent.
She underscored the significance of the theme “Educate an African fit for the 21st century, building resilience education system for increase access to inclusive life long quality and relevant learning in Africa” highlighting the need for a renewed commitment to building education systems that provide access to inclusive, lifelong, quality, and relevant learning for all Africans.
She urged leaders to recognize the transformative power of education in shaping the continent’s future and addressing the complex challenges of the 21st century.
The Minister highlighted Ghana’s progress in improving education under President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s leadership, including the introduction of the Free Senior High School policy, which has significantly increased enrollment from 308,799 to 507,519 and improved gender balance. She also mentioned the Ghana Smart School Project, which provides tablets and digital resources to students, positively impacting education in the country.
By prioritizing education, Madam Botchwey emphasized that Africa can build a future that is more equitable, prosperous, and resilient, where the youth can thrive and reach their full potential.
She called on African leaders to join forces in making education a continental priority, aligning with the African Union’s vision of “Educating an African fit for the 21st century.”