Africa’s future rests on the strength of its youth, and that strength is built in early childhood. For Dr. Adetola Ariyike, a leading education futurist and STEM advocate, the formative years of a child’s life are not just important; they are foundational.
That belief has inspired her mission to reform Africa’s education system, particularly through STEAM—science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Her flagship initiative, STEAM UP Kwara, is a bold programme launched in Kwara State to bring innovation to classrooms and nurture problem-solvers, creators, and confident learners.
“Every child deserves a bright future,” Dr. Adetola says. “Not just in theory, but through structured, values-based education that works.”
The Crisis of Early Education in Africa
Dr. Adetola’s research revealed a disturbing truth: early childhood education is not mandatory in many African countries, and participation rates in crèches, nurseries, and kindergartens are below 40%.
This lack of early structure results in lost potential. She believes the solution starts with the curriculum. In her words:
“A curriculum is not just a structure; it is a configuration. It builds values. It shapes identity.”
And with Africa’s youth population, over 400 million aged 15–35, being the largest in the world, one can’t help but ask: What foundation are we laying for tomorrow’s leaders?
Education and Skills: A New Priority
Echoing the words of Nelson Mandela, “Education is the most powerful weapon…”, Dr. Adetola emphasises that skills-based education is the true engine of progress.
Former Ghanaian president Kwame Nkrumah put it clearly:
“Without skills, we are nothing in this modern world.”
In today’s Africa, education must go beyond theory. It must empower young people to adapt, solve problems, and lead industries. That’s why STEAM matters: it merges learning with real-world application.
Youth Employment: More Than Just Jobs
Youth employment in Africa is more than an economic issue; it’s a matter of social stability.
The International Labour Organisation reports that between 2012 and 2024, youth unemployment in Africa has hovered around 11.2%. Addressing this calls for equipping young people with both education and employable skills.
Dr. Adetola believes that “STEAM UP KWARA” education can bridge this gap, preparing young Africans not just for jobs, but for careers they can shape.
Good Governance Begins with Enlightenment
Governance is not just a political word; it’s a value system. For African youth to lead change, they must understand what good leadership looks like.
Movements like #EndSARS and campus political activism reflect the hunger for change. But change must be rooted in knowledge, awareness, and civic education, starting early.
“We cannot talk about good governance without preparing our children to govern themselves first,” Dr. Adetola notes.
Rethinking the African Environment
Often, when we speak of the environment, we think of trees and the climate. But Dr. Adetola redefines this idea.
“The environment is more than rivers and trees. It’s the voices we let shape us.”
She believes that a toxic environment can destroy potential, while a nurturing one unlocks it. Schools, homes, and communities must become safe, creative, and emotionally supportive spaces, especially during the formative years.
It’s Time to Act, Not Just Talk
The time for action is now. As Dr. Adetola asks:
“Are we preparing our children for a life of struggle or a future of strength and purpose?”
Words are powerful, but without action, they are hollow. Whether you’re a policymaker, parent, teacher, or citizen, the question is: What are you doing today to build the African child’s tomorrow
Final Thoughts
“STEAM UP Kwara” isn’t just an academic idea; it’s a blueprint for building a thriving continent. Through the bold vision of leaders like Dr. Adetola Ariyike, we are reminded that education, skills, values, and vision must come together to create a generation equipped for anything.
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