African education union leaders have called for peace, greater investment in quality education, and the empowerment of the teaching profession across the continent. They also emphasised the need for active participation of young educators in union leadership. These issues took centre stage during the Education International Africa Regional Committee (EIARC) meeting held in Accra, Ghana, from November 11–13, 2024.
In her keynote address, EIARC President Marima Chipkaou highlighted the persistent challenges facing African nations, such as conflict, human rights violations, and trade union suppression. Chipkaou urged the African Union to implement the Continental Education Strategy for Africa (CESA) 2026-2035. She also called on Education International (EI) member organisations in Africa to back the “Go Public! Fund Education” campaign and prioritise combating school-related gender-based violence (SRGBV).
Mugwena Maluleke, President of Education International, reinforced the need for educators to be champions of peace and quality education. “Governments must shift resources from financing war to financing education,” he urged, while stressing the need to implement the recommendations of the United Nations High-level Panel on the Teaching Profession. Maluleke underlined educators’ critical role in defending their rights and ensuring education access for all children across Africa.
Dennis Sinyolo, EI Africa Director, presented the region’s 2025 operational plan, highlighting the vision for a unified and responsive region advocating inclusive education and educators’ rights. “Our mission is to unite and mobilise teachers and education personnel across Africa to fight for professional and educational rights,” he stated.
A groundbreaking study, launched during the meeting, shed light on the barriers hindering young educators from participating in union activities. Conducted across 23 African countries, the study revealed structural, socio-economic, and cultural hurdles that prevent young educators from taking on leadership roles. Key recommendations included fostering intergenerational dialogue, financial support, and skill development to empower young educators.
Davide Ruscelli from the International Task Force on Teachers for Education 2030 highlighted the urgent need for 15 million more teachers in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2030 to meet educational demands. He also emphasized the importance of dignity, equity, inclusion, and innovation in the teaching profession.
The Gender Progress Report for Africa, presented by EIA Coordinator Anaïs Dayamba, highlighted progress in gender awareness and the growing number of women in union leadership roles. Dayamba reiterated that achieving gender equity is essential for peaceful and sustainable societies.
The EIARC concluded with three key resolutions: a call for global peace, a demand for elevating the teaching profession, and an appeal to the Angolan government to end interference in the activities of the national teachers’ union (SINPROF).
In her closing remarks, Chipkaou expressed satisfaction with the committee’s progress and urged participants to replicate regional successes in their respective countries. “Each small step forward leads to significant progress,” she noted, emphasising the importance of collective action.
1.Strategic Goals
2. Union renewal and development
3. Promotion of democracy, equity, and inclusion
4. Advocacy for trade union rights as human rights
5. Upholding standards and working conditions for educators
6. Combating the commercialization of education
7. Empowering young members
The EIARC reaffirmed its commitment to advancing quality education and educators’ rights, signalling a brighter future for African education.
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