The Ministry of Education is set to host a major international conference aimed at shaping Africa’s digital and educational future, as the continent faces growing pressure to define its place in a rapidly evolving global order.
From June 3 to 5, 2026, Accra will welcome more than 1,000 participants from over 80 countries for eLearning Africa 2026, a high-level gathering focused on how digital technology can transform learning, strengthen education systems and drive inclusive growth across Africa.
The event is being hosted in collaboration with other African ministers and international partners.
At a time when artificial intelligence, big data and digital platforms are reshaping economies and societies, the conference will examine how Africa can move from being a consumer of technology to a producer of innovation.
Many of the systems that influence how people learn and work today are designed outside the continent. The Ministry says the conference provides an opportunity for African countries to take a more active role in shaping these systems to reflect local realities and priorities.
The theme of the conference, “Africa’s Time, Africa’s Terms: Learning for Sovereignty, Strength and Solidarity,” underscores the Ministry’s focus on ensuring that Africa leads its own technological and educational transformation.
A key priority will be digital learning. While technology is increasingly being introduced into classrooms and training institutions, the Ministry emphasises that true progress lies in building systems that are relevant to African contexts—incorporating local languages, cultures and knowledge systems.
The conference will also spotlight the role of young people in driving the continent’s future. With Africa’s youthful population, the Ministry is advocating for education systems that empower learners not just to absorb knowledge, but to create, innovate and lead.
Artificial intelligence is expected to feature prominently in discussions. As AI becomes more widespread across sectors such as education, agriculture and healthcare, concerns remain about bias and the lack of African representation in global data systems.
The Ministry and its partners are expected to push for stronger investment in local research, African-led innovation, and greater participation in global conversations on data governance and digital ethics.
Speaking ahead of the event, Education Minister, Haruna Iddrisu stressed the importance of investing in education to secure Africa’s place in the digital age.
“Africa’s development in the 21st century will depend on how boldly we invest in knowledge, technology and our young people. Education must empower our youth not only to participate in the digital economy, but to shape it, innovate within it and ensure that it reflects African realities and values,” he said.
Beyond technology, the conference will explore how education can support economic transformation. As countries shift towards digitalisation and green growth, the demand for skills in areas such as digital literacy, data analysis and renewable energy continues to grow.
Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), apprenticeships and entrepreneurship will be key focus areas, with discussions expected to highlight the role of innovation hubs and youth-led enterprises in job creation.
However, the Ministry acknowledges ongoing challenges, particularly in infrastructure and access. Despite improvements in connectivity, many learners still lack reliable internet, devices and relevant digital content.
Addressing these gaps, officials say, will require sustained investment and coordinated efforts across governments and partners.
Inclusion will also be central to the discussions, with a focus on ensuring that girls, learners with disabilities and those in remote communities are not left behind in the digital transition.
Hosting the conference in Accra, the Ministry believes, carries symbolic significance—placing Ghana at the heart of conversations about Africa’s future, grounded in self-determination, innovation and shared progress.
As preparations continue, the Ministry says the conference will not only shape education policy but also redefine how Africa positions itself in a fast-changing digital world.
