Over 500 education leaders, including 28 ministers of education and representatives from 39 African countries, are gathering in Kigali, Rwanda, from November 11 to 13 for the Africa Foundational Learning Exchange (FLEX 2024). Hosted by the Rwandan Ministry of Education, this event is a significant platform for knowledge exchange aimed at advancing foundational learning across the continent. The focus is on scaling successful education initiatives to combat learning poverty, which poses a threat to Africa's future workforce.
Rwanda's Minister of Education, Hon. Joseph Nsengimana, stated that the event aligns with Rwanda's vision for equitable access to quality education. He emphasized the importance of sharing knowledge and fostering collaboration among African nations to equip children with necessary skills for socio-economic development.
The conference occurs as learning poverty rates in sub-Saharan Africa near 90%, according to UNESCO and other organizations. The World Bank has highlighted potential economic gains of $6.5 trillion if this issue is addressed but warns of possible losses up to $17 trillion without action. A $97 billion funding gap in education underscores the need for collaborative efforts among African nations and partners.
UNICEF's Foundational Learning Action Tracker indicates progress in some areas but notes gaps in support for effective classroom teaching. Of the surveyed countries, only one in five has made significant progress since last year.
FLEX 2024 will bring together policymakers and experts over three days to assess commitments made at previous key gatherings. The event also coincides with the African Union’s Year of Education, providing an opportunity to evaluate regional education goals.
Victoria Kwakwa from the World Bank emphasized the urgency for governments to invest in foundational learning. Albert Nsengiyumva from ADEA expressed excitement about reversing learning poverty through knowledge exchange at FLEX. UNICEF's Etleva Kadilli called for greater political commitment and investment in children's education.
Anders Holm from the Hempel Foundation highlighted FLEX as a platform for transforming commitment into action. Natasha de Marcken from USAID stressed the importance of sustained commitment and knowledge exchange at FLEX to achieve educational results at scale.
For further information on FLEX 2024, contact details are provided for representatives from various organizations involved.