Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, the first female president of Mauritius, has called on African countries, especially Nigeria, to treat education as a top priority for development.
Speaking in Lagos during Nigeria’s Democracy Day celebration on June 12, she said education is the most powerful tool Africa can use to change its future.
She pointed out that while Africa makes up 17% of the world’s population, it only contributes 3% to the global economy and carries a high disease burden. Despite these challenges, she believes the continent has great potential if it invests in quality education.
Gurib-Fakim said universities should train students not just for current jobs but also to prepare for future challenges. She added that education systems must teach young people how to adapt, grow, and stay relevant in a fast-changing world.
“Our schools should help students think critically, stay flexible, and be ready to solve problems that don’t even exist yet,” she said.
She also emphasised the need for higher education to match the needs of society, making sure that graduates leave school with useful and practical knowledge.
