Shaping the Future African Workforce
Join Africa’s leading policymakers, educators, innovators, and youth in Kampala, Uganda, for a transformative dialogue on education, innovation, and employment.
5th Annual Edition · 12 to 13 November 2026 · Kampala, Uganda
Shaping the Future African Workforce
Join Africa’s leading policymakers, educators, innovators, and youth in Kampala, Uganda, for a transformative dialogue on education, innovation, and employment.
Travel · Uganda Airlines · Conference deal
15% off flights to the conference
Code URFEIA11 Book at ugandairlines.com
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National ICT Innovation Hub, Kampala · 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
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2026 theme
The Future African Workforce: Education at the Intersection of AfCFTA, Innovation, and Employment
About the Event
The Annual Transnational Future of Education in Africa Conference is a premier transnational platform that brings together policymakers, academic leaders, development partners, private sector actors, and young people from across Africa and beyond to shape the future of education on the continent. It started in 2020.
The 5th Annual Edition, scheduled for November 12–13 in Kampala, Uganda, is themed: “The Future African Workforce: Education at the Intersection of AfCFTA, Innovation, and Employment.”
As Africa advances toward deeper economic integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the need for a skilled, innovative, and future-ready workforce has become critical. With over 60% of Africa’s population under the age of 25, education systems must evolve to equip young people with relevant skills for employment, entrepreneurship, and global competitiveness.
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This conference serves as a strategic convening to address this challenge by fostering dialogue, collaboration, and actionable solutions. It will explore key areas such as digital transformation, technical and vocational education (TVET), youth innovation, policy reform, and inclusive learning systems.
Participants will engage through high-level panel sessions, interactive workshops, exhibitions, research presentations, and policy dialogues, all designed to generate practical outcomes and strengthen partnerships across sectors.
Over the years, the conference has evolved into a recognized continental platform, engaging participants from over 30 countries, convening more than 1,300 stakeholders, and producing impactful outcomes such as policy declarations and cross-border collaborations.
Ultimately, the conference is committed to ensuring that Africa’s education systems are resilient, inclusive, and aligned with the demands of a rapidly changing world, empowering young people to drive innovation, economic growth, and sustainable development across the continent.
Take part
Partner with a Continental Movement
Position your organization at the forefront of Africa’s education and workforce transformation through strategic partnerships and sponsorship opportunities.
Be Part of Africa’s Education Transformation
Don’t miss the opportunity to connect, learn, and contribute to shaping a resilient, innovative, and future-ready African workforce.
Beyond Conversations: Real Solutions
Engage in panels, workshops, exhibitions, and policy dialogues designed to generate actionable outcomes for education and workforce transformation.
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Moments from Past Conferences
Schedule
Kampala, Uganda
November 12–13, 2026
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Daily
Day 1 agenda
09:00 – 09:30
Registration & Networking & Exhibition Viewing
Arrival of participants, nametag collection, networking.
MC/Moderator: Darren Kyeyune & Ednar Nankya
09:30 – 09:45
Opening Ceremony
Welcome remarks, conference overview, introductions.
ED, African Center for Youth Development, Education and Advocacy Initiative (ACYDEAI)
MC/Moderator: Darren Kyeyune & Ednar Nankya
09:45 – 10:00
Goodwill Messages
Remarks from Government, and AU/UN representatives.
OPM – Uganda, AU representative, UNDP
MC/Moderator: Darren Kyeyune & Ednar Nankya
10:00 – 10:30
Keynote Address (Ministry of Education and Sports)
“Reimagining Education for Africa’s Workforce in the AfCFTA Era”
Ministry of Education and Sports, Uganda | Buganda
Sharing Uganda’s perspective on the transformation of education systems and the preparation of young people for the future of work.
MC/Moderator: Darren Kyeyune & Ednar Nankya
10:30 – 11:00
Tea Break
Refreshments & networking
Crystal Suites
11:00 – 12:00
High-Level Panel 1
Aligning Education Systems with Africa’s Labor Market & AfCFTA Opportunities
UN Women, Kenya: Sharon Kinyanjui
Preparing Africa’s Future Workforce: The AFRICA Framework for Inclusive AI, Gender-Responsive Education and AfCFTA Readiness
UNDP Uganda
Innovating for Africa’s Future Workforce: Connecting Skills, Entrepreneurship, Digital Transformation & Decent Work
CEO, Asante Africa Foundation: Geoffrey Kasangaki
Building Africa’s STEM Workforce: Skills, Innovation and Opportunities for the Future
Buganda Heritage & Tourism Board
Reimagining the Purpose of School: Restoring the Joy of Learning, Valuing Education and Preparing Young People for Life and Work
MC/Moderator: Darren Allan Kyeyune
12:00 – 12:15
Goodwill Messages
Remarks from Development partners, and Academia.
African Development Bank, NCBA Bank, VCs – UCU, VU, IUEA
MC/Moderator: Darren Kyeyune
12:15 – 13:15
High-Level Panel 2
Digital Transformation, AI, and the Future of Learning in Africa
Co-Founder, Komm Mit Afrika Invest: Mamadou Hawa Diallo
Preparing Africa’s Future Workforce through AI, Digital Skills & Youth Innovation
Worklyn, South Africa: Rawk Akani
Advancing the education ecosystem: How to Learn with AI
Refactory Academy
Skills for Africa’s Future Workforce: From Education and Training to Employment, Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Principal, Uganda Institute of Information and Communication Technology (UICT)
Bridging the Digital Divide: Integrating AI and TVET to Build a Borderless Workforce under AfCFTA
MC/Moderator: Ednar Nankya
13:15 – 14:00
Lunch Break
Lunch & networking
Crystal Suites
14:00 – 15:00
High-Level Panel 5
Transforming African Universities for the Future Workforce
Germany Institute of Applied Sciences
From Applied Learning to Employment: Strengthening University–Industry Partnerships for Africa’s Future Workforce
VC, African Rural University
Rural Universities as Engines of Africa’s Future Workforce: Linking Education, Innovation and Employment
VC, Uganda Martyrs University
Reimagining African Universities for the Future of Work: From Employment, Innovation & Impact
Academic Registrar, Islamic University in Uganda
Beyond the Degree: Strengthening University Systems for Employability, Skills Recognition & Lifelong Learning
MC/Moderator: Jorram Paul Ssonko
15:00 – 15:30
Exhibition Viewing & Networking
Networking & exhibition viewing
15:30 – 16:45
Technical Workshops / Breakout Sessions
15 minutes expert presentation each · 30 minutes facilitated discussion · 10 minutes recommendation · 5 minutes report-back
TVET & Skills Development
Northwind Foundation, Uganda: Max Amanu
Power of the First Job: Why Opportunity Competes Education
Educate! Uganda: Edith Mukyala
From Learning to Livelihoods: Evidence and Lessons from Educate!’s Workforce Readiness Model in East Africa
Moderator: Kenneth Wabuleya
EdTech Innovation
SSCL Africa: Dr Enoch Opare Mintah
The Cognitive Translation Barrier: The Hidden Cost of Africa’s Skills and Sustainability Gap
Regional Director, Africa, Spix Foundation: John Gitabi Kimotho
Access to world class EdTech for all learners and teachers in Africa
Moderator: Joshua Ahimbisibwe
Building University–Industry Partnerships
Uganda Martyrs University: Director, University Advancement & Executive Operations | VU
Building University-Industry Partnerships for Graduate Employability & Institutional Impact
IUEA / UCU / MUBS
Harmonizing Curricula for Continental Mobility: How can we align Higher Education with AfCFTA and Cross-Border Industry Demands
Moderator: Kabigumira Joab
Bridging the Rural Digital Divide and Advancing Informed Learning
Speedbird Advisory: Christopher Katiisa
Bridging the Gender Gap: Digital Innovation as a Catalyst for Overcoming Domestic Barriers to Female Education in Africa
Mbale City Local Government: Justine Auma
Healing-Centered Education for Workforce Readiness: Strengthening Innovation, Adaptability, Resilience, and Leadership in African Learners
Moderator: Jorram Paul Ssonko
16:45 – 17:00
Day 1 Wrap-Up
Summary of key insights, announcements for Day 2
ECOWAS Director, ACYDEAI | Mr. Sylvester Phadion
Day 2 agenda
09:00 – 09:15
Arrival & Recap
Summary of Day 1 outcomes
EAC Director, ACYDEAI
MC/Moderator: Ednar Nankya
09:15 – 09:45
Keynote Address (Ministry of ICT & National Guidance)
Innovation, Policy and the Future of Education Systems in Africa
Ministry of ICT & National Guidance / National ICT Innovation Hub
MC/Moderator: Darren Kyeyune & Ednar Nankya
09:45 – 10:45
High-Level Panel 3
AfCFTA, Trade Literacy & Workforce Mobility
Afro-Arab Youth Council
Connecting Africa and the Arab World: Youth Skills, Mobility and Economic Integration for the Future Workforce
African Development Bank
Financing Africa’s Future Workforce: Investing in Skills, Innovation and Jobs for Inclusive Economic Transformation
International Youth Congress on AfCFTA (ICOYACA)
Empowering the Youth Dividend: Harmonizing Trade Literacy and Skills Portability for a Mobile Ugandan and Pan-African Workforce
Uganda Tourism Board
From Destination Marketing to Decent Work: Building Digital Skills, Tourism Enterprises and Career Opportunities for Uganda’s Future Workforce
MC/Moderator: Joshua Ahimbisibwe
10:45 – 11:45
High-Level Panel 4
Youth Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Job Creation in Africa
EU Delegation to Uganda
Building Future-Ready Skills for Africa’s Youth: Linking Education, TVET & Employment
Founder, Elite Africa Education: Uchenna Umeano
What Is Education For in 21st-Century Africa?
Ashoka East Africa
From Education to System Change: Empowering young Africans to become changemakers and job creators
National Social Security Fund Uganda (pending confirmation)
From First Job to Financial Security: Building a Culture of Saving and Social Protection among Africa’s Future Workforce
MC/Moderator: Kenneth Wabuleya
11:45 – 12:00
Tea Break
Refreshments & networking
Crystal Suites Hotel
12:00 – 13:00
Ministerial Roundtable (Flagship Session)
Policy, Governance & Education Reform in Africa
Ministry reps, MPs, AU reps, EU, AfDB, UNDP, ACYDEAI, AAYC, University & Institution reps, Ashoka, BHTB, UTB, NSSF, Hariss, Airtel
MC/Moderator: Darren Kyeyune
12:00 – 13:00
Exhibition Viewing & Networking
Exhibition viewing & networking | Drama
School
MC/Moderator: Ednar Nankya
13:00 – 14:00
Lunch Break
Lunch & networking
Crystal Suites Hotel
14:00 – 15:20
Research & Paper Presentations
Evidence-based insights on education, workforce & policy
Selected researchers
MC/Moderator: Lontina Keshi & Isah Abdul-Azeez
15:20 – 16:20
Technical Workshops / Breakout Sessions
10 minutes expert presentation each · 25 minutes facilitated discussion · 10 minutes recommendation · 5 minutes report-back
Policy & Governance in Education
Brookings Institution: Brad Olsen
Scaling What Works in Education: Stretching Scarce Resources to Build Africa’s Future Workforce
Ministry of Education and Sports / UNATCOM
From Policy to Practice: Strengthening Education Governance, Accountability and Evidence-Based Reform in Africa
Moderator: Darren Allan Kyeyune
Partnerships & Investment in Education
Education Outcomes Fund / AfDB (prospective speaker)
Financing Education for Impact: Mobilizing Public, Private and Development Partner Investment for Sustainable Learning Outcomes
NCBA Bank (prospective speaker)
Beyond Funding: Building Effective Education Partnerships for Innovation, Skills Development and Employment
Moderator: Kabigumira Joab Kanyonyi
Youth Innovation & Workforce Development
StarkIndustriesZW: Alex Sibanda
The Adaptive Generation: Preparing African Youth for Work that doesn’t exist Yet
Shared Ground | UN Women, Uganda: Angum Manuella Okello Elizabeth
Beyond Access: Building an Inclusive Education System for Africa’s Future Workforce
Moderator: Lontina Keshi
16:20 – 16:35
Conference Outcomes & Communiqué Presentation
Presentation of findings, policy communiqué highlights (from the Ministerial Roundtable) & stakeholder commitments.
Darren Kyeyune & Ednar Nankya
MC/Moderator: Jorram Paul Ssonko
16:35 – 16:45
Program Launch
African Future Skills and Innovation Network (AFSIN)
Min of Education & Sports, National ICT Innovation Hub, AAYC, ACYDEAI, UNDP, Germany Institute of Applied Sciences, Refactory, Trade Afrika Group
5-year program connecting African leaders, educators, employers and innovators for the future workforce
MC/Moderator: Ednar Nankya
16:45 – 17:00
Closing Ceremony
Closing remarks, vote of thanks, group photograph
OPM
MC/Moderator: Darren Kyeyune & Ednar Nankya
Evening agenda
19:00 – 19:30
Red Carpet Arrivals & Networking
Silver Springs Hotel, Bugolobi
MC/Moderator: Darren Kyeyune & Ednar Nankya
19:30
Opening Remarks
Guest of Honor: OPM
19:30 – 20:15
Dinner
20:15 – 20:30
Cultural Presentation
Ubuntu Cultural Troupe
20:30 – 21:45
Awards Presentations
MC/Moderator: Darren Kyeyune & Ednar Nankya
21:45 – 21:55
Entertainment Performances
21:55 – 22:30
Recognition of Partners & Sponsors
22:30 – 22:40
Grand Finale & Closing Toast
ED, ACYDEAI
Conference Pricing
Be part of a high-level continental gathering shaping the future of education, innovation, and employment in Africa. Choose a ticket that works for you and join 300–500+ stakeholders from across the continent and beyond.
Early Bird
$20
End Oct. 5thEnded
- Full access to all conference sessions
- Breakfast & Lunch
- Workshops & panel discussions
- Networking opportunities
- Conference materials
- Visa Support (Intl Delegate)
- Certificate of participation
Standard
$30
End Oct. 30thEnded
- Full access to all conference sessions
- Breakfast & Lunch
- Workshops & panel discussions
- Networking opportunities
- Conference materials
- Visa Support (Intl Delegate)
- Certificate of participation
Late Registration
$40
Ended
- Full access to all conference sessions
- Breakfast & Lunch
- Workshops & panel discussions
- Networking opportunities
- Conference materials
- Visa Support (Intl Delegate)
- Certificate of participation
Student
$10
Valid student ID requiredEnded
- Full access to all conference sessions
- Breakfast & Lunch
- Workshops & panel discussions
- Networking opportunities
- Conference materials
- Visa Support (Intl Delegate)
- Certificate of participation
Virtual Participation
$10
Join onlineEnded
- Live online access to all conference sessions
- Workshops & panel discussions (streamed)
- Networking opportunities
- Digital conference materials
- Certificate of participation (paid delegates only)
Exhibition
$150
Ended
- Dedicated exhibition space at the conference venue
- Direct access to 300–500 high-level participants
- Opportunity to showcase products, services, or initiatives
- Brand visibility across conference platforms
- Networking with potential partners, clients, and investors
Our Impact Across Africa
Over the years, the Future of Education in Africa Conference has grown into a powerful continental platform delivering measurable impact.
30+
Countries Represented
13,504+
Participants Engaged Globally
4+
Successful Editions Delivered
50+
Speakers & Experts Featured
54+
Partner Organizations & Institutions
10+
Policy Dialogues & High-Level
22 M+
Reached through live stream
45+
Scholarship Provided
Impact Statement
From shaping policy conversations to creating opportunities for young people, the conference continues to influence education systems and workforce development across Africa.
- Supported education policy discussions across multiple countries
- Contributed to curriculum reform conversations in Nigeria
- Facilitated scholarship and capacity-building opportunities
- Built a continental network of education stakeholders
- Promoted innovation, digital learning, and workforce readiness
Meet the team lead
A dedicated team of experts, innovators, and organisers working collaboratively to deliver a seamless and impactful continental event.
Baluka Sharifah
Conference Chairperson/EAC Director
Muluuta Solomon
Secretary General
Amb. Kim Walusimbi
Government & Diplomatic Relations Coordinator
Tama Monday Yari
Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement
Bright Etornam Letsu
Speakers & VIP Relations Coordinator
Hope Maurisha
Private Sector Engagement Coordinator
Sheila Mbabazi
Registration & Delegate Coordinator
Joshua Ahimbisibwe
Exhibition & Innovation Showcase Coordinator
Boluwatife Adekanye
Media & Documentation Coordinator
Viola Nakimbugwe
Sponsorship & Resource Mobilization Chair
Hellena S. Tugyetwena
Volunteer & University Engagement Coordinator
Ednar Nankya
Digital Marketing & Social Media Coordinator
Organisers
About the host organisation
The African Center for Youth Development, Education, and Advocacy Initiative (ACYDEAI) is a pan-African, youth-led organization committed to advancing education, empowering young people, and driving policy and social transformation across Africa.
ACYDEAI works at the intersection of education reform, youth development, governance, and economic empowerment, delivering impactful programs that address some of the continent’s most pressing challenges. The organization actively engages with governments, development partners, academic institutions, and communities to design and implement solutions that promote inclusive, equitable, and future-oriented education systems.
About the Cohost organisation
Legisco International Co Ltd is a dynamic, multi-sector company based in Kampala, Uganda, operating across agriculture, logistics, and construction value chains. Since its establishment, the company has been committed to delivering sustainable, innovative, and community-driven solutions that contribute to economic growth and social transformation. As a forward-looking enterprise, Legisco plays a critical role in bridging the gap between education, skills development, and employment, aligning closely with Africa’s development priorities and the aspirations of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
