The Education Technology (EdTech) landscape in Africa is undergoing rapid changes, offering both significant opportunities and challenges. A recent World Bank report on EdTech in Africa emphasized the urgent need for interventions in key areas. With this in mind, the Mastercard Foundation recently hosted a groundbreaking EdTech conference, setting the stage for a new chapter in Africa’s digital education.
The Importance of the Mastercard Foundation EdTech Conference
Tackling the Digital Skills Gap
Sub-Saharan Africa faces a daunting digital skills gap, with nearly 70-80% of the youth lacking the necessary skills to thrive in the digital economy. By 2030, an estimated 230 million jobs in Africa will require digital expertise, yet only 10 million young people are currently receiving the training they need. The Mastercard Foundation EdTech Conference brought together policymakers, educators, and tech innovators to create actionable strategies for bridging this gap.
Expanding Africa’s Digital Infrastructure
Limited access to digital infrastructure, compounded by high costs and unreliable electricity, is a major hurdle for EdTech in Africa. The conference spotlighted these challenges, calling for increased investment and innovation to build out the digital infrastructure needed to support education across the continent.
Promoting Inclusive Access to Digital Education
The digital revolution in Africa risks leaving behind young people in rural areas and women, who are often excluded from tech advancements. The Mastercard Foundation EdTech Conference pushed for policies and programs that promote equal access to digital education, ensuring all Africans can benefit from the emerging digital economy.
Supporting Africa’s Growing Gig Economy
Africa’s gig economy, valued at $20 billion and employing 5 million people, is expected to grow by 33% by 2025. With 70% of gig workers under the age of 35, there’s a clear demand for digital skills. The conference explored how to better integrate digital training into Africa’s education system to prepare young people for these opportunities.
Key Moments from the Conference
Day 1: Building Resilient and Inclusive EdTech Ecosystems
On Monday, July 8, 2024, the Mastercard Foundation launched its inaugural EdTech conference in Abuja, Nigeria. With over 500 participants, the event attracted high-profile speakers, including Dr. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications Innovation and Digital Economy; Joseph Nsengimana, Director of the Mastercard Foundation Centre for Innovative Teaching and Learning; and Albert Nsengiyumva, Executive Secretary of the Association for the Development of Education in Africa (ADEA). Discussions focused on digital literacy, public-private partnerships, and inclusive strategies to drive EdTech growth.
Day 2: Job Creation and the Future of Work in Africa
The second day of the conference highlighted how EdTech can prepare Africa’s youth for future jobs—many of which don’t yet exist. Experts like Dr. Nkemdilim Iheanachor of Lagos Business School and Tochukwu Ezeukwu of the African Venture Philanthropy Alliance emphasized the importance of aligning classroom learning with market needs, ensuring that digital education leads to tangible employment opportunities.
Why Abuja Was the Perfect Venue for the Conference
Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, was an ideal location for this pan-African EdTech dialogue. Its central position on the continent made it accessible to participants from across Africa, while its modern infrastructure ensured smooth logistics for the large-scale event. Hosting the conference in Abuja not only drew attention to Africa’s EdTech challenges but also fostered collaboration among key stakeholders to drive meaningful change.
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