Interested in learning more about CID’s GEAR:UP program and how our education research is changing outcomes for students around the world?
By Giovanna Lia Toledo
On September 18, 2024, the Harvard Center for International Development (CID) hosted an event in collaboration with the Harvard Ministerial Leadership Program, the first event under the new Global Education and Research: Unleashing Potential (GEAR:UP) research program. The event, titled "Getting to Equity and Scale in Successful Education Programs,” brought together key education leaders from Africa, including Professor Tahir Mamman, Nigeria’s Minister of Education; Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Technical and Higher Education; and Dr. Torerayi Moyo, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Primary and Secondary Education. The discussion was moderated by CID’s Faculty Director and GEAR:UP Co-Director Asim I. Khwaja.
Shaping the Next Generation
The discussion highlighted the challenges and immense opportunities that African countries possess in transforming their education systems. The ministers emphasized the strengths inherent in their nations, particularly the vast potential of their youthful populations. As other regions face declining birth rates, Africa stands out with a growing youth demographic poised to drive future global talent and innovation. This demographic advantage presents an opportunity for African countries to position themselves as key players in the global economy.
During the discussion, the ministers shared what excites them about their roles, reflecting on the profound responsibility and opportunity to shape the future of their countries through education. Professor Mamman spoke about the potential to uplift Nigeria's youth by aligning educational outcomes with the aspirations of a new generation, which also comes with a great responsibility. Dr. Moyo highlighted Zimbabwe’s impressive 93% literacy rate and the success of its Early Learning Policy (ZELP). He also discussed their efforts to support students from diverse backgrounds, especially those from vulnerable communities. Dr. Wurie discussed Sierra Leone's efforts to enhance gender and youth representation in their cabinet, and their goals in investing sustainably in education, ensuring that it remains a priority for national development.
Technology Drives a Changing Education Landscape
A significant part of the discussion revolved around technology’s role in education, especially regarding adaptations for a 21st century education system. The ministers explored how digital tools and artificial intelligence can transform educational outcomes. They emphasized the importance of making these technological advancements inclusive, ensuring that they reach all students, particularly those in underserved regions.
Pursuing Equity in Education
Gender disparities in education were another key focus of the event, where the ministers highlighted the need to ensure that girls and women not only have access to education but also benefit from equal opportunities in the workforce. The ministers highlighted the importance of incentivizing women to pursue STEM fields—expanded to STEAM in Sierra Leone, with the inclusion of Agriculture—particularly due to how technology can enhance youth potential.
Changing the World through Education
The event concluded with a forward-looking perspective on African education. The ministers discussed the importance of innovation and collaboration in shaping the future, echoing Nelson Mandela’s famous words: "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."
Their insights underscored the unique position African nations hold in leading global educational reform and driving the next generation of world leaders.
The event was organized with support from the Harvard Ministerial Leadership Program, Harvard University Center for African Studies, the Harvard African Law Association, and the African Student Organization.
Global Education and Research: Unleashing Potential
Image Credits
Miguel Reyes
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