Africa stands at a pivotal moment in its quest for sustainable development. The continent's thriving entrepreneurial spirit, innovative potential, and youthful demographic offer tremendous opportunities. To fully capitalise on these strengths and tackle challenges such as economic inequalities and the rapidly changing world of work, education must take centre stage. It is through education that Africa can unlock the potential of its people, harness the power of technology, and build a foundation for lasting prosperity.

 

Building on the achievements of previous editions, the QS Africa Forum 2024 adopts the theme "Empowering Africa's Youth: Integrating Entrepreneurship, Future Skills, and AI/Technology in Education for a Sustainable Future". This theme emphasises the critical role of education in nurturing entrepreneurial thinking, imparting relevant skills, and harnessing AI and technology to drive sustainable growth. By bringing together stakeholders from across the education spectrum, including policymakers, academics, industry leaders, and innovators, the forum aims to catalyse meaningful discussions and inspire actionable strategies. The forum will focus on the following key areas:

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• Entrepreneurship: Education Africa's vibrant entrepreneurial landscape reflects the innovative spirit of its people. From small-scale ventures to high-growth startups, entrepreneurship has the power to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and address societal challenges. However, to fully unleash this potential, education must play a pivotal role in nurturing an entrepreneurial mindset. The forum will delve into how education can cultivate entrepreneurial thinking, equipping learners with the knowledge, skills, and resources to establish and scale ventures. Discussions will revolve around embedding entrepreneurship in curricula, promoting university-industry collaborations, and fostering supportive ecosystems for startups. Participants will explore best practices in entrepreneurship education, share success stories, and identify opportunities for collaboration and capacity building. By prioritising entrepreneurship education, Africa can create a generation of job creators, innovators, and problem solvers who can drive the continent's economic transformation.
   

• Skills for work: As the nature of work undergoes rapid transformation, driven by technological advancements and shifting global dynamics, education must adapt to prepare learners with the skills essential for success in the 21st-century workplace. The skills of the future go beyond traditional academic knowledge and encompass a range of competencies such as problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, digital literacy, and adaptability. The forum will showcase innovative strategies for developing these crucial skills, highlighting the importance of experiential learning, project-based approaches, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Emphasis will be placed on bridging the gap between education and industry demands, ensuring that graduates are equipped with the skills employers seek. Discussions will explore ways to encourage work-based learning, internships, and apprenticeships, providing learners with real-world exposure and practical experience. Moreover, the forum will address the need for continuous upskilling and lifelong learning, recognising that the rapid pace of change requires individuals to constantly update their skills throughout their careers. By aligning education with the evolving demands of the workforce, Africa can position its youth for success in the global economy.
   

• AI and Technology in Education: The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and the rapid advancement of technology are transforming every aspect of society, including education. To thrive in an AI-driven future, Africa must equip its youth with the necessary technological competencies. Despite challenges in technology access and infrastructure, the continent boasts ingenious innovations and ideas that warrant integration into higher education. The forum will explore how AI and technology can revolutionise learning, bolster research, and catalyse innovation. Participants will delve into the potential of AI-powered personalised learning, adaptive assessments, and intelligent tutoring systems to enhance educational outcomes. The forum will also showcase success stories of AI and tech-driven initiatives in African education, highlighting how technology can bridge the digital divide, expand access to quality education, and foster collaboration among learners and educators. Additionally, discussions will address the ethical considerations surrounding AI in education, ensuring that its deployment is inclusive, transparent, and aligned with African values. By harnessing the power of AI and technology, Africa can leapfrog traditional barriers and create a future-ready education system that empowers its youth to thrive in the digital age.
   

• Sustainability: A Cross-Cutting Theme Sustainability must be interwoven throughout all facets of education. The forum will highlight how entrepreneurship, skills development, and AI/technology can be leveraged to advance sustainable development goals. Education plays a crucial role in fostering environmental stewardship, promoting social responsibility, and building economic resilience. Discussions will delve into how education can instill a sustainability mindset, equipping learners with the knowledge and skills to address pressing global challenges such as climate change, inequality, and resource scarcity. The forum will explore innovative pedagogical approaches that integrate sustainability principles across disciplines, from business and engineering to the social sciences and the arts. Participants will share best practices in green campus initiatives, community engagement projects, and partnerships that promote sustainable development. By embedding sustainability as a core value in education, Africa can cultivate a generation of leaders and changemakers who are committed to building a more equitable, resilient, and sustainable future for the continent and beyond.

A Call to Action The QS Africa Forum 2024 serves as a clarion call for educators, policymakers, and innovators to unite and shape the trajectory of African education. It is a platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and collective action. By prioritising entrepreneurship, future-ready skills, and AI/technology, all anchored in sustainability, we can empower Africa's youth to spearhead the continent's progress. The forum aims to spark meaningful dialogues, forge strategic partnerships, and inspire bold initiatives that can transform education and unlock Africa's vast potential.

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Participants will have the opportunity to engage in thought-provoking panel discussions, interactive workshops, and networking sessions, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and experiences. The forum will showcase inspiring keynote speakers, cutting-edge research, and innovative solutions that are driving educational excellence across the continent. By bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise, the QS Africa Forum 2024 seeks to build a strong community of education leaders and changemakers who are committed to shaping a brighter future for Africa.

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The outcomes of the forum will extend far beyond the event itself. Participants will leave with actionable insights, new collaborations, and a renewed sense of purpose. The forum will generate a comprehensive report capturing the key findings, recommendations, and best practices discussed during the event. This report will serve as a valuable resource for policymakers, institutions, and stakeholders, guiding their efforts to transform education and drive sustainable development in Africa.

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The QS Africa Forum 2024 is more than just a conference; it is a movement. It is a call to action for all those who believe in the transformative power of education and its role in shaping Africa's future. By coming together, sharing knowledge, and taking bold steps, we can reaffirm education as the bedrock of Africa's advancement. Let us seize this opportunity to empower Africa's youth, harness the potential of technology, and build a sustainable future for generations to come. The QS Africa Forum 2024 invites you to be part of this transformative journey.