British Council’s 'Going Global' conference kicks off

The British Council's Going Global Africa conference has kicked off in Abuja, Nigeria, marking a significant milestone as the conference delves into global and regional challenges in tertiary education. CNBC Africa's Akin Obakeye provides updates from the conference where regional and international collaboration takes center stage in efforts to bolster capacity at the individual, institutional, and system level. The theme of building sustainable and relevant education for Africa underscores the critical importance of stakeholders from both the public and private sectors across Africa and the UK participating in this landmark event. The 20th edition of the Going Global conference, the first to be held in Africa, highlights the continent's pivotal role in advancing education. The agenda for the first day saw engaging panel sessions addressing key issues such as driving youth participation and scaling education across Africa. With the potential of African youth shaping the future, the necessity of upskilling and empowering them was a prominent topic of discussion. The focus extended beyond formal education to include Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as well as marginalized sectors, all integral components in fostering sustainable education in Africa. As the conference progresses, the spotlight shifts towards empowerment and inclusive education, accentuating the importance of not only academic learning but also practical vocational skills development. The event, spanning several days and set to conclude on Thursday, aims to assess the progress made over the past 19 years and strengthen the ties between the UK and Africa, with a particular emphasis on sub-Saharan Africa. Nigeria's active involvement in hosting the conference underscores its commitment to educational advancement, as evidenced by the government's six-point agenda outlined by the Minister of Education, Olatunji Alawsa. The government's dedication to elevating the education sector in Nigeria signifies a step towards achieving substantial growth and development. The Going Global Africa conference serves as a platform for sharing best practices, fostering collaboration, and driving innovation in education across borders. The wealth of knowledge and experiences exchanged during the event are poised to make substantial contributions to educational reforms and advancements in the region. With a focus on sustainable and inclusive education, the conference aims to shape the future of education in Africa by equipping individuals and institutions with the tools and resources necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.