Africa Needs to Build Systems that Empower Learners, Strengthen Nations, Advance Prosperity: DPM Temesgen

Addis Ababa, August 25, 2025 (ENA)—Africa needs to build systems that empower learners, strengthen nations and advance prosperity of the continent, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh noted.

The 41st Annual Conference of the Association for Educational Assessment in Africa (AEAA) has commenced in Addis Ababa today. The conference will continue for the next four consecutive days.

In his opening remarks, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh highlighted the significance of the conference in reflecting on past achievements and shaping a future where quality education is a guarantee for every child.

Temesgen added that educational assessment is not merely a tool, but a vital compass guiding educational progress.

 The deputy prime minister stated AEAA has become a vital space for collaboration, knowledge and for innovation, together we can lift education higher.

 He stated that Ethiopia stands as the cradle of humanity and the victory of Adwa symbolizes courage and unity, a spirit that must permeate education.

 Today, Ethiopia and several African nations are implementing bold educational reforms, aiming to raise standards for all learners, he noted.

 In this regard, the conference serves as a platform for sharing innovative practices and transforming ideas into tangible progress, he emphasized.

 The Deputy Prime Minister also pointed out that Africa needs to build systems that empower learners, strengthen nations and advance the prosperity of the continent.

 “Let Ethiopia be the bridge between what we have been and what we dare to become. Let us pledge here to build systems that empower every learner. That strengthens every nation. That advances prosperity for all of Africa,” Temesgen elaborated.

Temesgen also called for a Common Continental Assessment Framework, which would provide coherence across nations, enhance mobility for learners and educators, and respect local cultures and curricula.

 He stressed that Africa is rising and leading is essential.

 In this aspect, AEAA plays a critical role in aligning the goals of ministries, institutions, and communities to ensure that every assessment system is credible and just, he noted.

 Association for Educational Assessment in Africa (AEAA) President, Mafu S. Rakometsi emphasized the imperative for educational systems to confront historical injustices.

 He urged practitioners and policymakers to revise assessment methods to ensure fairness and accuracy, which are vital for informed decision-making.

 According to the AEAA President, the conference aims to explore transformative approaches in educational assessment, enhancing quality learning for future generations.

 Expressing a vision for a prosperous, united, and innovative Africa, he stressed the need for a common assessment framework to elevate educational standards and promote equitable access to quality education across the continent.

 On her part, Education Division Head at African Union, Sophia Ndemutila Ashipala highlighted the relevance of transforming educational assessment systems towards quality learning and informed decision making to achieve AU Agenda 2063.

 Ashipala outlined AU's commitment to modernizing and harmonizing educational assessment systems to meet 21st-century needs, focusing on competency-based and learner-centered models.

The launch of the Common Continental Assessment Framework would establish a benchmark for education across Africa while respecting national diversity and facilitate data-driven decision-making, enhance academic mobility, and support regional integration, she added.

 She also emphasized for strong partnerships among governments, institutions, and civil society for innovative thinking and actionable strategies in transforming educational assessment in Africa, affirming AU's commitment to fostering inclusive and equitable education to empower the next generation of leaders and innovators in Africa.

 Education Minister, Professor Berhanu Nega urged Africans to become conscious of evolving trends in this dynamic world.

 "Now is the time for Africa to change. Africans need to be conscious about them; start to think carefully and anticipate what is coming ahead," he stated.

 The minister underscored the necessity of transforming the education system to align with contemporary demands, ensuring quality education while maintaining the integrity of assessments and data-driven decision-making.

 Prof. Berhanu pointed out Ethiopia's swift advancements across various sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure, and energy, emphasizing that similar progress is being made in the educational landscape through enhanced assessment practices.