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The African Union Headquarters came alive with passion and purpose as educators, policymakers, and advocates convened to celebrate World Teachers' Day. This year’s theme, "Valuing Teacher Voices," served as a rallying cry, emphasizing the indispensable role that teachers play in the educational landscape of the continent. Education Internation Africa’s representatives at the event, Dr. Dennis Sinyolo and Dr. Pedi Anawi highlighted the urgent need for collaboration to enhance educational frameworks and conditions for teachers across Africa.

Dr. Dennis Sinyolo, the EI Africa Regional Director, in his remarks, urged the African Union to adapt and implement strategic recommendations that promote social development and effective governance. He emphasized the pivotal role of teachers in educational reform, advocating for their inclusion in crucial dialogue that shapes policies and frameworks. "Investment in teachers is essential for driving meaningful change," Dr. Sinyolo remarked, setting the tone for a collaborative approach to addressing educational challenges.

In his address, Dr. Sinyolo outlined a vision for ambitious educational progress, advocating for the raising of teaching standards such as ensuring every teacher attains at least a bachelor's degree, and improving of the status and working conditions of teachers and education support personnel. He stressed the importance of developing robust national and social dialogue frameworks that are supported by development partners. "Addressing the challenges facing Africa’s education system requires bold, transformative steps and a collective commitment to valuing teacher voices," he stated, rallying stakeholders to take decisive action.

Building on this momentum, Dr. Pedi Anawi, Regional Coordinator of EI Africa, underscored the importance of ongoing professional development in the teaching profession. He pointed out that the need for continual training has been a global priority since 1966, reflecting a universal requirement to enhance professionalism in education. "Teachers must be equipped with the skills and resources necessary to navigate an evolving educational landscape," Dr. Anawi emphasized, advocating for a framework that prioritizes teachers' voices in social and policy dialogues.

Dr. Anawi further called for collaborative efforts among African nations to invest in teacher unions and refine strategies that support professional growth. He urged the African Union to implement the UN high-level recommendations aimed at strengthening national dialogue frameworks. "By fostering a culture of lifelong learning and ambition—where every teacher achieves a bachelor's degree—we can make significant progress in addressing the challenges facing Africa's education system," he asserted.

The event also featured a notable presence from the African Young Educators Network (AYEN), which added vital perspectives on the welfare and working conditions of teachers. Their participation underscored the event's theme, reinforcing the importance of valuing teacher voices in the ongoing dialogue about education reform. Their recommendations revolved around: Providing quality training for teachers; Taking into account teachers in crisis situations; Taking into account ECE teachers; Taking into account children with special needs.

In his final remarks, Dr. Sinyolo said: “I would like to encourage African governments to invest in education, teachers, infrastructure, teaching and learning resources, and to make sure that our children learn in safe and healthy schools. A big thank you to the African Union and UNESCO for collaborating with Education International to promote quality education for all and elevate the teaching profession in Africa.”

As the celebration ended, the collective energy and commitment from all attendees signaled a promising path forward for the future of education in Africa.