Investing in Education: A Call to Action for African Children
Education Cannot Wait: Honoring the Resilience of African Youth
On June 16, 2025, the International Day of the African Child brings to light the remarkable courage and resilience of millions of children across the continent. Education Cannot Wait (ECW) is calling for investment in education as a fundamental right for every child. The potential of African youth is vast, and their right to access quality education is unequivocally non-negotiable.
The Importance of Investment in Education
Investing in education is essential for building strong economies and ensuring peace and stability throughout Africa. The World Bank has clearly illustrated that fundamental learning can potentially double the per capita GDP in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2050. Furthermore, a recent analysis demonstrated that every $1 invested in tripling early childhood education in the region can yield returns of up to $33.
By making even modest investments in the education of all children in Africa, we could not only transform the continent but also unlock vast untapped markets. This would fulfill the promises made in the Pact for the Future and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
A Disturbing Reality
Yet, a staggering number of children are left behind. Approximately half of the 234 million school-age children affected by crises worldwide live in Sub-Saharan Africa, as reported by ECW. The cycle of poverty, displacement, and crises is perpetuated by a lack of education. Alarmingly, four out of five African children by the age of 10 cannot read or understand a simple text.
A Call for Action
To address these pressing challenges, we must invest in quality education for the youngest and fastest-growing continent on the planet. ECW has already reached over 7.4 million girls and boys across Africa, focusing on core learning, gender equality, teacher training, and psychosocial support—an approach that encompasses the whole child.
Today, as part of the African Union's efforts under the
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