The African Union (AU) has lauded the efforts of young women who are leveraging technology through initiatives like the Innovating Education Expo. Further, the AU’s Continental Education Strategy for Africa (CESA) recognizes the immense potential of information and communication technology (ICT) in empowering graduates and ensuring their contribution to socio-economic development. ICT offers opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and employability, as well as flexibility in pedagogies and improved access to education.
Catalyzing Innovation:
In this regard, through the Innovating Education Expo, AU/CIEFFA shed light on the inspiring work of young women from across Africa. Innovators, from Cameroon, Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, and South Africa, have made significant strides in transforming education in their communities.
- Susannah Farr (South Africa): Farr’s Gold Youth Development Agency (GYDA) uses peer education to reach over 55,000 young people in four countries. GYDA helps improve education outcomes, creates jobs, and addresses challenges in difficult environments.
- Anne Nyaboke Wakesho (Kenya): Wakesho’s eLimu Kenya developed Hadithi Hadithi, a literacy app offering educational content in multiple languages. This app helps out-of-school and early childhood learners.
- Amina Umuhoza (Rwanda): Umuhoza’s Dukataze platform empowers girls with essential skills, mental health support, and entrepreneurial guidance. This helps reduce unwanted pregnancies and promotes economic empowerment.
- Angèle Messa (Cameroon): Messa’s Educlick platform offers alternative teaching methods for children who can’t access formal education. Educlick uses online and offline technologies to reach vulnerable populations.
- Anita Antwiwaa (Ghana): Antwiwaa works at the All Nations University Space Systems Technology Laboratory. She teaches space technology to young people, inspiring them to pursue STEM careers and promoting gender equality in the field.
The Expo highlighted the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education in empowering young women. By equipping them with STEM skills, these innovators are developing solutions to daily challenges and becoming leaders in their communities.
