ADDIS ABABA, June 17 (Xinhua) -- Experts and policymakers have called on African countries to formulate child-centered policies to spur the inclusive participation of children in education and other vital sectors as a critical imperative in realizing a better continental future.
The call came during a high-level continental event, which was organized by the African Union (AU) on Monday under the theme of "Equity at the Heart of the AU Decade of Education," in connection with the celebration of this year's edition of the Day of the African Child that falls on June 16 each year.
Highlighting that the African continent continues to face "stark inequities" in education access, participation, and learning outcomes, the meeting underscored the need to exert concerted efforts in augmenting the participation of under-represented children, especially children with disabilities, girls, children in conflict-affected areas, and those from marginalized communities.
Madougou Saidou, director of education, science, technology and innovation at the AU Commission, called for continental actions toward the realization of the major aspirations of the AU's Decade of Education for Africa (2024-2034), including a more coordinated and streamlined "political will, strategic investment, and data-driven policy to transform educational trajectories in Africa."
The high-level webinar, among other things, highlighted the progress made by selected African countries in helping children enroll in school, as well as recent regional commitments to expanding access to quality education.
Zhang Yanhong, head of foresight and innovation at the Institute for Statistics of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, urged African countries to emulate the successful experiences of countries with best practices in aligning their financing and policy priorities.
He called for robust efforts at both national and continental levels to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.
Serving as an important platform for African policymakers and experts to share experiences, the continental gathering also catalyzed regional dialogue and partnership to accelerate efforts toward setting and reaching national benchmarks in the education field.
