Bridging the gap: How Edtech can attract 97 million out-of-school youth in Africa

Across Africa, millions of young minds yearn for education, yet lack access to traditional classrooms. A staggering 97 million youth find themselves on the sidelines, facing the challenge of being out of school. The EdTech Conference in Abuja, Nigeria, recently shed light on the potential of technology to bridge this educational gap. Joseph Nsengimana, the Director of Education at Mastercard Foundation, emphasized the need for collaboration and early adoption of innovative technologies to address this pressing issue. Nsengimana highlighted the importance of leveraging existing infrastructure and embracing digital tools to ensure that all young people have access to quality education. He emphasized that access to technology is crucial, but adoption by African youth is equally essential to drive change in the education sector. One key point from the interview was Nsengimana's observation that African youth are already adept at using technology for various purposes, including gaming and social media. However, there is a significant gap in utilizing technology for educational purposes. He emphasized the need to meet young people where they are by integrating technology into the learning process effectively. Nsengimana stressed that the shift to e-learning during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the potential of technology to enhance education across the continent. He urged stakeholders not to revert to traditional methods post-pandemic but to sustain the momentum by developing policies that support the integration of technology in education. Another crucial aspect discussed during the interview was the role of the private sector in bridging the gap in access to technology for learning. Nsengimana pointed out the investment challenges in the education technology space, emphasizing the need to involve the public sector to expand the market beyond private schools. By engaging with government entities, African entrepreneurs can design solutions that address infrastructure, connectivity, and affordability challenges specific to the continent. Nsengimana highlighted the innovative approaches taken by African tech companies to cater to diverse connectivity needs, such as designing apps compatible with feature phones to reach users with limited internet access. He emphasized the importance of supporting African entrepreneurs in developing tailored solutions to meet the educational needs of young people across the continent. In conclusion, Nsengimana emphasized the critical role of investing in Africa's youth to secure a brighter future for the continent and the world. By harnessing the innovation of African entrepreneurs and fostering collaboration with governments and stakeholders, the education sector can empower young people and drive sustainable development. As the demographic landscape shifts, with Africa poised to have the majority of the world's youth population by the turn of the century, investing in education and technology is not just a regional priority but a global imperative. The potential of technology to transform education in Africa is immense, and with concerted efforts and strategic partnerships, the educational gap that hinders millions of youth can be bridged.