Conference Launches to Boost Science Investment through Education and Skills

Addressing Youth Unemployment Through Education and Innovation

The African Regional Conference on Education and Skills Development is currently taking place in Accra, with the goal of positioning Africa as a leader in the future of science and technology. The event, which runs under the theme “Harnessing Entrepreneurship and Innovation to Tackle Youth Unemployment,” aims to explore how African universities and technical institutions can cultivate a new generation of thinkers, researchers, and innovators to meet the continent’s challenges.

Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, the Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, emphasized that the conference is timely given the urgent need to redefine education and address skill gaps for youth employment at national, regional, and global levels. He highlighted the importance of integrating technology into education, stating that digital learning platforms and advanced vocational training programs are key to achieving sustainable development and economic empowerment.

Ghana, he noted, cannot afford to be left behind in this transformation. By creating an environment where education aligns with the evolving demands of the job market, young people will gain the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

The Minister expressed particular excitement about the areas of discussion, which include redefining education to address skill gaps for youth employment. He also stressed the need for a broader policy framework by governments to enhance industry collaboration, create more employment opportunities, promote digital transformation in education, and ensure effective implementation of skills development initiatives.

Investing in the Future of Africa’s Youth

Professor Jophus Anamuah-Mensah, Executive Chair of Teacher Education in Sub-Saharan Africa (TESSA) and Chairman of the conference, urged African leaders to invest in science, technology, and skills development. He called for the removal of all financial barriers in these fields to ensure that every young person can benefit.

He pointed out that Generation Z possesses bright and innovative minds and creative hands, and what they need is a financial push from their respective governments to achieve their goals. According to him, investing in these young individuals is not a waste but an investment that will yield long-term benefits for society.

“I think we need to put things in such a way that these young ones with creative ideas are supported. So what it means is that government has to invest in them, and when you invest in them you are not throwing the money away. It will come back to you because now we have a more productive citizenship,” he said.

Shifting Focus to Skills-Based Education

Ambassador Rudo M. Chitiga, Permanent Secretary for Skills Audit and Development in Zimbabwe, emphasized the need for Africa to shift its focus from certificates to skills development. She argued that skills-based education is no longer a choice but a necessity, especially in an era marked by rapid technological change, climate uncertainty, complex global challenges, and the need to transform Africa's role from a consumer to a knowledge expert.

She called on African leaders to refocus their educational policies on science, technology, and skills development to ensure sustainable development. Zimbabwe, she stated, is firmly committed to the continental vision of Africa where every learner is empowered with the relevant knowledge, skills, and values to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Key Takeaways from the Conference

The conference has brought together various stakeholders, including government officials, educators, and industry experts, to discuss strategies for addressing youth unemployment through education and innovation. Some of the key points raised include:

• Redefining education to better align with the needs of the job market.
• Enhancing industry collaboration to create more employment opportunities.
• Promoting digital transformation in education to improve access and quality.
• Investing in science and technology to drive economic growth and development.
• Removing financial barriers to ensure equal access to education and training.

The discussions underscored the importance of a collective effort to equip Africa’s youth with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving global landscape. As the conference continues, it is expected to produce actionable recommendations that can guide policymakers and educators in shaping a more inclusive and innovative future for the continent.