The Sterling One Foundation has reaffirmed its dedication to enhancing foundational learning across Africa in collaboration with the Association for the Development of Education in Africa (ADEA) and various partners. This commitment was reiterated during the 2023 High-Level Policy Dialogue held in Zambia by ADEA and the Zambian Ministry of Education, aimed at shaping policies and strategies to bolster foundational learning, encourage dialogue, and exchange best practices ahead of the African Union Year of Education in 2024.
According to Mrs. Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of the Sterling One Foundation, the Dialogue’s outcomes present a significant opportunity to fortify private sector and civil society contributions to resolving the educational challenge. She expressed enthusiasm about implementing these resolutions, emphasising the critical role of policies in advancing sustainable development in Africa.
“Policies are crucial to sustainable development work in Africa, and we are excited about the prospects outlined here to enhance early childhood and primary education efforts,” Ibekwe stated.
Key resolutions from the Policy Dialogue underscore the urgent need to introduce structured pedagogy, age-appropriate teaching methods, and technological integration for improved teacher quality in Africa. Zambia’s Minister of Education, Hon. Douglas Munsaka Syakalima, emphasised the pivotal role of foundational learning in propelling Africa’s development.
The Executive Secretary of ADEA, Mr. Albert Nsengiyumva, emphasised the continent’s need for collective action to tackle the learning crisis, urging stakeholders to accelerate progress. Notable voices at the Dialogue, including Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili and Dr. Benjamin Piper, advocated for data-driven decisions and scaling successful initiatives.
The High-Level Policy Dialogue facilitated the review of solutions and insights from participating countries, fostering discussions on effective learning methodologies and policies. It also included school visits to showcase play-based learning concepts enabled by appropriate policies.
The commitment of both ADEA and the Sterling One Foundation to address education challenges in Africa is a crucial step towards achieving sustainable social and economic transformation.
