Partnership for Education in Africa
Table of Contents
Introduction
In May 2023, His Excellency Ouhoumoudou MAHAMADOU, the Prime Minister of Niger, inaugurated the 40th Session of the Ministers’ Council of CAMES. The council gathered ministers responsible for higher education and research from 14 out of the 19 member countries of the institution, along with other notable personalities. During the council meeting, Dr. Dimitri Sanga introduced UNESCO’s flagship program, Campus Afrique, which aims to address the challenges faced by African higher education. This article explores the key components of Campus Afrique and highlights the collaborations between UNESCO and various countries and organizations.
Campus Afrique: Addressing Challenges in African Higher Education
Dr. Dimitri Sanga’s speech at the Council of Ministers of CAMES focused on four key components of UNESCO’s flagship program, Campus Afrique. These components are:
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Networking High-Value Scientific and Technological Laboratories: Campus Afrique aims to establish networks of scientific and technological laboratories across Africa. These networks will facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing among researchers and scientists, leading to advancements in various fields.
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Prioritizing Vocational and Technical Training: In response to the issue of massive unemployment in Africa, Campus Afrique places a strong emphasis on vocational and technical training. By equipping individuals with practical skills, the program aims to enhance employment opportunities and contribute to economic growth.
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Recognizing Qualifications through Conventions: The Addis Convention and the UNESCO Global Convention play a crucial role in recognizing qualifications obtained in African higher education institutions. Dr. Sanga emphasized the importance of member states ratifying these conventions to ensure the recognition and mobility of African students and professionals.
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Establishing Quality Assurance Mechanisms: Campus Afrique focuses on implementing quality assurance mechanisms within member states. These mechanisms will ensure that the education provided by African institutions meets international standards and promotes excellence in higher education.
Bilateral Meetings and Collaborations
During the 40th Session of the Ministers’ Council of CAMES, several bilateral meetings and work sessions took place between UNESCO and delegations from Benin, Niger, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). These discussions primarily revolved around the non-ratification of the Addis Convention and the Global Convention. The member states were encouraged to take advantage of the benefits and assets provided by these conventions for higher education.
Additionally, bilateral meetings were held with the German Research Foundation (DFG) and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) to explore potential collaborations. These meetings focused on synergies related to the new initiative of HAQAA3, data and statistics production on higher education, and the implementation of quality assurance mechanisms in line with UNESCO’s recognition of qualifications conventions.
The Path Towards a Prosperous Future
The collaboration between UNESCO and CAMES is poised to set new benchmarks for higher education in Africa. With a focus on inclusivity, quality, and relevance, this partnership aims to contribute to a prosperous and knowledge-intensive future for the continent. By working together, UNESCO and CAMES strive to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.
In conclusion, the partnership for education in Africa, as exemplified by UNESCO’s flagship program, Campus Afrique, holds great potential for transforming the higher education landscape on the continent. Through collaboration, recognition of qualifications, and the establishment of quality assurance mechanisms, African countries can work towards providing inclusive and high-quality education for all.
