Africa Must Lead Its Digital Education Future, Not Just Consume It – Haruna Iddrisu

Minister for Education Haruna Iddrisu has stated that Africa must position itself as a leader in digital learning rather than remain dependent on solutions developed elsewhere.

Speaking at the 18th Ministerial Round Table, which brought together education leaders, policymakers, development partners and technology experts, the Minister stressed that the continent’s future lies in building sovereign, innovative and united learning systems that place Africa at the centre of its digital education transformation.

Iddrisu highlighted Ghana’s ongoing investments in digital education, STEM, artificial intelligence, robotics and curriculum reforms as examples of the shift needed across the continent.

He called for greater focus on locally relevant educational content, stronger educational institutions, and equitable access to technology-enabled learning for all learners, regardless of background or location.

The Minister further warned against Africa becoming merely a consumer of technologies created outside its borders.

He emphasised the urgent need for increased investment in AI literacy and the development of ethical frameworks for technology use rooted in African values and contexts.

The UNESCO Representative to Ghana, Edmond Moukala, also addressed the round table, underscoring that foundational literacy remains critical in the age of artificial intelligence.

He noted that reading, writing, critical thinking and the ability to evaluate information are still essential building blocks for digital and AI competencies.

Mr Moukala advocated for public digital learning platforms that support teachers, protect learner data, and promote education as a public good.

Story by Hajara Fuseini

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