In Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, leaders from across Africa gathered for the 2024 edition of the annual Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) Africa Business Forum (ABF2024) to address pressing issues related to technological advancement and digital transformation on the continent.
At the forefront of discussions was Claver Gatete, the Executive Secretary of the ECA, who underscored the critical role of skills-based education in Africa’s technological progress. Gatete emphasized the urgent need to shift educational focus towards practical skills acquisition, particularly in science and technology fields, to meet the demands of the digital era.
Highlighting the significance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning, Gatete stressed their potential in addressing Africa’s social and economic challenges. He called for increased investment in these areas to drive job creation, productivity growth, and overall competitiveness on the global stage.
Despite Africa’s progress in broadband access and the thriving mobile money market, Gatete pointed out lingering challenges, including the digital skills gap and the need to create job opportunities for the continent’s youth.
Doron Avni, Google’s Vice President for Emerging Markets, echoed Gatete’s sentiments, emphasizing the transformative power of AI in fostering sustainable and inclusive growth in Africa. Avni advocated for inclusive AI education and government support to harness the full potential of technology.
Representatives from Nigeria, Zimbabwe, and Botswana also weighed in on the discussions. Nigerian Minister of State for Education, Yusuf Sununu, called for a radical overhaul of educational systems to integrate technology effectively. Zimbabwe’s Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Science and Technology Development, Amon Murwira, emphasized the need for educational reform to cultivate practical skills in technology.
Botswana’s Minister of Communications, Knowledge, and Technology, Thulaganyo Segokgo, highlighted Botswana’s efforts in building digital infrastructure to drive transformation and ensure inclusivity.
The ABF2024 served as a crucial platform for government and private sector representatives to engage in dialogue on harnessing technology and innovation to propel Africa’s development agenda. With a focus on digital skills development and investment in innovation, leaders aim to navigate the continent towards a sustainable and technologically advanced future.
Credit: News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)
