UNICEF calls for investment in basic education for African children

Massive investments in basic education for African children are required to help the continent realise its long-term transformation agenda, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) said Thursday.

The statement is part of the Day of the African Child on Sunday.

In a statement, UNICEF said that most African countries are not meeting their commitments to allocate 20 per cent of their national budget benchmark on education, as recommended by the Sustainable Development Goal framework for action for education.

"To ensure prosperity in Africa, we urgently need to see a continental revolution where commitments are turned into concrete action so children can attain the vital foundational skills necessary for them to progress to higher forms of education and realise their full potential," said Etleva Kadilli, UNICEF Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa.

The lead-up to Sunday's Day of the African Child focuses on "Education for all children in Africa: the time is now". It underscores the urgent need to ensure increased access to inclusive, lifelong, quality, and relevant learning in Africa.