Despite recent progress, education in the region is in crisis with 80% of 10-year-old children in Western and Central Africa unable to read and understand a simple text, and more than 32 million children out of school, which represents the largest share of all regions worldwide.
Ministers of Education and Finance from the region gathered in Accra to discuss priorities and investments needed to advance reforms, improve learning and reimagine educations systems to ensure that young people from across the region are able to fulfill their full potential.
The discussion highlighted lessons learned emerging from consultations with key stakeholders, and present policy options identified in the new World Bank regional strategy “From School to jobs: a journey for the young people of Western and Central Africa”.
The event featured remarks from the World Bank’s Senior Management in the region and discussions with a distinguished panel of African leaders, civil society organizations and youth.
