Dubai, United Arab Emirates — 2026-02-05 Education Emerge as Africa’s Top Priority at World Government Summit. Dubai, United Arab Emirates — Education has been identified as Africa’s top priority at the World Government Summit, with a focus on the continent’s rapid demographic growth and the challenges and opportunities it presents.
The summit highlighted that by 2050, nearly half of Africa’s population will be under the age of 25, placing unprecedented pressure on education systems across the continent.
Laura Frigenti, CEO of the Global Partnership for Education, emphasized the long — term benefits of education investment despite the significant costs and slow materialization of its impact. “Africa is at a critical juncture, “Frigenti. “
Education is a very expensive sector, and its benefits are often long — term and slow to materialize.
Unfortunately, many governments tend to deprioritize it. ” The African Union’s declaration of 2024 as the Year of Education has been a significant step towards strengthening political commitment and focusing attention on preparing the next generation for Africa’s development.
Financing remains a major challenge, with policymakers advocating for a shift from an aid — dependent model to innovative financing mechanisms and stronger domestic tax systems to sustainably fund education at scale.
Nigeria, home to Africa’s largest population, is leading this shift, with the country’s Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, emphasizing Nigeria’s leadership ambitions. “Nigeria is a global leader, “Musawa. “
If Nigeria works, Africa will work.”.
The summit also addressed the impact of armed conflict on education, with approximately 80 million African children affected by conflict, representing one in three children on the continent.
The session emphasized the need for concerted efforts to ensure access to education in conflict — affected areas. Regional officials confirmed the commitment among West and Central African nations to accelerate digital transformation and AI to drive inclusive growth and job creation, recognizing the transformative potential of these technologies.
The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report indicates that reskilling and upskilling are priorities for increasing talent and well-being, particularly in the context of Africa’s evolving labor market. Further details are expected as the summit continues to explore innovative solutions to Africa’s education challenges.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
