The dialogue brought together education and skills leaders, policymakers, TVET institutions, development partners, private sector representatives, experts and African ambassadors to explore practical opportunities for strengthening TVET systems and preparing young people for changing labour markets.
“TVET has a critical role to play in Africa’s socio-economic transformation,” said Dr Rita Bissoonauth, Director of the UNESCO Liaison Office to the AU, highlighting the importance of investing in skills, technology, innovation and entrepreneurship to respond to Africa’s growing youth population.
Dr Chen Lu, Secretary General of SNAEIA, emphasized the potential for China–Africa cooperation to support knowledge exchange, institutional partnerships, curriculum innovation, teacher and trainer development, apprenticeships and stronger links between education and industry.
The dialogue also highlighted the value of quality assurance, international standards and mutual learning.
Expanding access through the China–Africa MOOC Platform
A key area of cooperation is the China–Africa MOOC Platform, jointly developed by UNESCO and SNAEIA to expand access to quality digital learning and support the transformation of TVET across Africa.
The platform is designed around the principles of co-creation, co-construction and sharing, combining digital learning resources, online training and AI-enabled approaches. It will support TVET students and instructors, as well as young people and adults seeking employment, entrepreneurship, upskilling and reskilling opportunities.
The initiative responds to persistent challenges including unequal access to TVET, gaps in digital infrastructure and skills, outdated curricula, language barriers and the need to prepare learners for the Fourth Industrial Revolution and green economy.
This initiative provides comprehensive assistance to eleven African Member States, focusing on strengthening governance, modernizing curricula, enhancing teacher training, and forging industry linkages.
The platform aims to reach at least 10,000 learners during its first two years, while developing localized courses, digital credentials and industry-relevant learning opportunities.
From dialogue to action
UNESCO and SNAEIA will work towards stronger institutional partnerships, localized digital content, educator capacity development, certification and links between TVET institutions and industry.
The cooperation contributes to SDG 4 on quality education, SDG 8 on decent work, SDG 9 on innovation and infrastructure and SDG 17 on partnerships, while supporting the African Union’s education and skills priorities.
The dialogue reaffirmed a shared commitment to building inclusive, innovative and sustainable China–Africa education partnerships that equip young people with the skills needed for the future of work.
