STEM education is emerging as a critical lever for Africa's economic future, aligning closely with the AU’s Agenda 2063 and the UN's 2030 goals. To accelerate progress, African leaders are called to boost STEM funding to at least 20 percent of national educaion budgets for education. This could generate a robust innovation ecosystem, reduce dependency on external technology, and unlock Africa's demographic dividend—ultimately positioning the continent as a leader in sustainable, knowledge-based growth.
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The United Nations has a new self-paced course on actionable solutions tailored to Africa’s specific needs. Participants will gain insights into the role of domestic resource mobilization and robust institutions in tackling Africa's triple paradox.
Over 70 percent of women-led businesses in Africa have insufficient access to financial services, and many operate in the informal sector where they lack legal protections. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents a promising opportunity for economic growth and development across the continent. Women should play a central role in benefiting from AfCFTA, and there is a critical need for targeted interventions that can empower female entrepreneurs.
Leveraging geographical indications to increase the value of strategic African agricultural products
Africa stands at a pivotal crossroads, with innovation and proactive policymaking poised to unlock the continent's vast agricultural potential. Geographical Indications (GIs) are a powerful tool that can protect the unique qualities and characteristics of agricultural products linked to specific regions. By associating products with their geographic origin, GIs can help differentiate African goods in both local and international markets. This differentiation can lead to improved prices and increased demand, creating incentives for local producers to invest in quality and sustainability.
Investing in STEM education can contribute significantly to building a skilled and employable workforce in Africa, increasing opportunities for young people to compete for quality jobs and growing related industries. Such an investment would turn Africa’s “youth bulge” into an economic dividend.
As a young data developer responsible for mining and analysing the administrative tax data provided to researchers through the programme, I am acutely aware of the economic challenges faced by the average South African, particularly young people.
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