ECOSOCC and Cambridge partner to boost digital learning in Africa
The partnership seeks to equip young Africans with skills needed for work, leadership, and social development in an increasingly digital world.
The African Union’s Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC) and Cambridge University Press & Assessment have signed an agreement to collaborate on education initiatives aimed at strengthening teaching and learning across Africa. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed on 20 September 2025 in New York, on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly.
Africa’s rapidly growing youth population, 60 percent of the continent is under the age of 25, presents both opportunities and challenges. By 2050, one in four people globally will live in Africa, making investment in education systems a pressing priority. The partnership seeks to equip young Africans with skills needed for work, leadership, and social development in an increasingly digital world.
ECOSOCC Presiding Officer Louis Cheick Sissoko described the agreement as ‘a vital step’ that amplifies citizen voices and supports the African Union’s agenda for sustainable development. Cambridge’s Dr Anna Kingsley underlined the importance of mutual learning, saying that ‘true partnership is essential’ for long-term impact.
Why does it matter?
The agreement sets out a joint action plan in four areas: expanding access to digital education tools, innovating curricula to prepare students for employment and entrepreneurship, strengthening the capacity of African civil society in leadership and governance, and forming partnerships with other stakeholders to share resources and expertise.
