Accra, Ghana – October 18, 2024 – The inaugural Africa Skills Week (ASW) has wrapped up in Ghana, calling for robust action to address the continent’s skills gap and youth unemployment challenges. The event, which hosted leaders from governments, educational institutions, and international organizations, concluded with a powerful communiqué urging the institutionalization of ASW as a biennial event to drive continued dialogue and collaboration.
Key outcomes from the week included increased cooperation across sectors, enhanced policy discussions, and an appeal to prioritize entrepreneurship, technology integration, and inclusive education. One of the most notable calls was for the African Union to declare 2025-2034 the “Decade of Skills and Jobs.”
A Youth Statement issued by young participants captured their aspirations, focusing on employability, inclusivity, and readiness for Africa’s impending technological revolution. The event culminated in the announcement of the African Union Education Innovation Award winners, with Ghana’s OGames securing the top prize for its virtual science platform, SimuLab and Science Safari.
Ghana’s Minister for Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, closed the event with an impassioned call to action, urging attendees to “seize the moment” and work towards changing both their countries and the continent at large.
With Africa’s workforce set to double by 2050, the week underscored the urgent need to align skills development with the continent’s economic future, empowering youth to lead Africa’s growth and transformation.
Bottom of Form