Africa receives millions of euros in funding for its ‘Year of Education’

The European Union has pledged €245 million (US$263 million) for educational projects in Africa, as part of its commitment to support the continent’s ‘Year of Education’. The funding will go towards initiatives such as academic mobility, vocational education and training, research and learning in Nigeria, and girls’ education in Zambia.

European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jutta Urpilainen made the announcement at a Global Gateway High-Level Education event in Brussels, Belgium. The event aimed to bring together key global education actors ahead of the United Nations’ Summit of the Future in September 2024.

Urpilainen emphasized the importance of education in shaping a more sustainable world, stating, “I believe that education is the vehicle to shape a more sustainable world.” She also highlighted the significance of launching these new initiatives during Africa’s ‘Year of Education’.

The African Union designated 2024 as its ‘Year of Education’, urging governments to accelerate progress towards achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 4. The EU’s funding will support various projects aimed at promoting inclusive and equitable quality education in Africa.

Among the initiatives launched is the Intra-Africa Academic Mobility Scheme, which aims to encourage international learning mobility across the continent. Additionally, the EU will support the Africa-Europe Youth Academy and vocational education and training programs in Africa.

The EU’s investment in education and research aligns with its Global Gateway strategy, which focuses on strengthening health, education, and research systems worldwide. By prioritizing education and research, the EU aims to support sustainable development and empower vulnerable groups in Africa and beyond.