ABOUT

The 2024 Africa Regional Conference & Exhibition on Education and Skills Development

ABOUT THE CONFERENCE

The Africa Regional Conference & Exhibition on Education and Skills Development (ARC-EDS) is an initiative of ESDEV Foundation Africa. It is organised in partnership with Ghana’s premier Technical University – The Accra Technical University. The conference aims to provide solutions to the pressing challenges of unemployment and skills development for employability among Africa’s youth population.

Additionally, it seeks to advocate for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a viable pathway to empower young people with entrepreneurial knowledge and skills, and ultimately contribute to the reduction of unemployment and dependency in Ghana and the Africa region.

in partnership with

This maiden edition will serve as a vital platform for collective thinking among stakeholders, towards triggering a turnaround in the fortunes of Africa’s growing youth population, engendering hope, and opportunities for socio-economic transformation of the Continent. Together, we aim to explore strategies to combat the growing youth unemployment by amplifying the many opportunities that exist in the Africa region for the youth.

Background Context & Justification Exhibition

THE THEME
"Unlocking Africa’s Youth Potential for Socio-Economic Transformation"

Focuses on harnessing the talents, skills, and energy of Africa's young population to drive positive change in various sectors of society and the economy. It emphasizes the importance of investing in youth development, education, entrepreneurship, and employment opportunities to unleash Africa's demographic dividend and catalyse socio-economic progress across the continent. The theme underscores the critical role of youth empowerment in shaping a prosperous and sustainable future for Africa.

DATE

12TH JUNE 2024

TIME

9:00 AM

VENUE

Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel, Accra

THE CONFERENCE OBJECTIVES

To contribute to finding solutions to the challenges of unemployment, and skills development for employability and entrepreneurship facing Africa’s youth population.
To raise awareness on the interconnectedness and contribution of a skilled youth population to Africa’s socio-economic transformation.
To provide opportunity for interaction amongst governments, the youth, and other stakeholders on how to accelerate progress to achieve SDG 4.3 and 4.4 targets related to quality technical and vocational education and training.

TARGET AUDIENCE

Policy makers in governmental and non-governmental institutions in Africa
Ministries of Education, Labour and Employment, and related departments and agencies of governments.
Faculties and students at Technical Universities and Polytechnics
Formal and non-formal skills training institutions.
Youth groups and Associations.
Artisanal Associations.
Trade Unions and other Employment Associations.
Educators and Teacher Unions.

FOCUS AREAS

Redefining education to address skill gaps for youth employment: The need for broader policy framework for African governments.
Leveraging emerging technologies for youth employment in Africa.
Maximising African youth potential for Sustainability and Sustainable development.
Harnessing the power of African youth populations as human capital for socio- economic transformation.
Bridging youth unemployment gaps: Strategies for effective skills acquisition for Africa.

EXPECTED OUTCOME

A diverse community of stakeholders equipped with innovative solutions designed to address challenges of skills development for employability and entrepreneurship facing Africa’s growing youthful population.