On 12^th November 2024, at Kigali convention center, H.E First Lady Jeannette Kagame attended Africa Foundational Learning Exchange 2024 #AfricaFLEX2024 organized by Ministry of Education, joining Ministers of Education, development partners, and experts from across Africa to strengthen commitments and accountability for foundational learning reforms. The Africa Foundational Learning Exchange is a pan-African platform driving progress in foundational learning through sharing strategies, experiences, and best practices.

This forum brought together distinguished policymakers, thought leaders, development partners, implementers, and other education actors from across Sub-Saharan Africa. The objective of the forum was to discuss innovative solutions, to catalyze the scaling of successful interventions that enhance and transform foundational learning across Africa.

To bless the gathering, H.E First Lady Mrs Jeannette Kagame said: “Africa will only achieve a desirable 2063, if we build solid roads and highways today, for tomorrow’s youth to drive our continent fast and surely, to its rightful destination. May quality education, at foundational level and above, cement our path to the continent’s development.”

H.E First Lady has been an advocate for education for all, not only in Rwanda but across the continent. She has been a tireless champion for early childhood education, recognizing it as a cornerstone of children's development.

In his closing remarks, Hon. Minister of Education acknowledged the efforts used for Africa Foundational Learning 2024 take place. “We are thankful for our partners who have supported this initiative and contributed to the Making Flex 2024 a success. Your commitment to the foundational learning is inspiring.”

“Over these 3 past days, we have shared valuable insights, strategies and vision to tackle foundational learning challenges across Africa. I call upon my fellow ministers to join efforts in ending learning poverty in the coming decade. Let us make this our priority, working together and learning from one another. Your dedication and contribution have enriched this event. I think you would all agree with me. We have learned from each other, we have exchanged ideas, and we live here convinced that indeed it is possible to solve this challenge that is before us.” Hon. Minister said

At the end, Doctor Jacqueline read resolutions of the Flex 2024 for action. The ministers of Education of the countries gathering at KCC affirm their commitment to improving foundational learning for every child on the continent, together with the Africa Union Association for the Development of Education in Africa by collectively commit to ending learning poverty in Africa by 2035.

Foundational learning is the basis for all future learning and economic empowerment. It ensures that children are equipped with the literacy, numeracy and essential skills such as character building, problem solving and social and emotional skills. To develop, learn and contribute to the social and economic development of the continent. It is therefore critical to position foundational learning as a pivotal strategy for long term prosperity, peace and security across Africa. Thereby contributing to achievements of universal quality education, a key aspect of the continental education strategy for Africa.

The Africa Foundational Learning #FLEX2024, is the largest country-to-country peer learning and knowledge exchange on African education with a focus on foundational learning. It took place in Kigali, Rwanda, from November 11-13, 2024.

The World Bank, ADEA, UNICEF, and Hempel Foundation supported the Ministry of Education in Rwanda for the forum to happen. The discussions tourned around innovative solutions to catalyze the scaling of successful interventions that enhance and transform foundational learning across Africa. The UNESCO GEM Report and Spotlight partners convened a series of sessions on key themes examined in the 2024 Spotlight Report at the Africa Foundational Learning Exchange (FLEX).

Malawi Minister Of Education Madalitso Kambauwa Wirima declared that Africa Foundational learning Exchange will take place in Malawi 2025.  “This gathering has also laid the groundwork for newborns and partnerships, ensuring that this vital dialogue will continue to grow and flourish. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our gracious Source through. Under the beautiful land of Thousand Hills. Join hands for special thanks to Honorable Minister Joseph NSENGIMANA for organizing this outstanding event and the team.” Malawi Minister Of Education Madalitso Kambauwa Wirima said.