Education is a universal value and a key driver of individual and societal fulfillment. It plays a central role in the development process, influencing economic, social, political, and cultural spheres. In an era of rapidly changing African societies-facing complex economic, social, and cultural challenges-critical questions arise about the resilience and effectiveness of education systems and their ability to serve as a true lever of transformation for African countries.

Education, in its broadest sense, extends far beyond mere instruction. It also encompasses individual development, skill acquisition, and knowledge transmission, positioning it as a cornerstone of public policy and a key driver of sustainable development. By fostering human capital, education propels social progress, playing a decisive role in improving living conditions, reducing inequalities, and equipping future generations.

The decisive role of education as a lever of economic growth and social progress is widely recognized and reflected in international development strategies. Globally, the importance of education is emphasized by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to be achieved by 2030, which aim to ensure inclusive, equitable, and quality education for all, while promoting lifelong learning opportunities.

At the continental level, Africa’s strategic framework, Agenda 2063, envisions a prosperous continent that fully participates in the global community and contributes to universal progress. Achieving these goals is inconceivable without sustained and integrated development of education systems, alongside the establishment of structures and mechanisms that promote the advancement of science and technology.

Fully aware of the importance and strategic nature of education policies, African countries have established independent advisory bodies separate from the executive branch. Their purpose is to deepen analysis on the challenges facing education systems and provide input for the development and monitoring of public policies in this field. Often established as Councils or Commissions, these bodies, acting as think tanks, are assigned to conduct studies and research on various components of the education systems, carry out evaluations, and provide opinions on issues submitted to them for review.

In Morocco, the Higher Council for Education, Training, and Scientific Research (CSEFRS) fulfills this advisory role as a constitutional institution mandated to support public policies in these areas.

As part of this mission and to foster meaningful cooperation among African nations in the field of education, the Council is organizing an African conference on the «Education Systems in Africa: Transformation Dynamics.» The conference will bring together various councils and similar institutions across the continent working to advance education, training, and scientific research. It will convene experts from diverse African institutions to assess the progress of educational reforms, identify achievements and obstacles, and propose pathways toward a more inclusive and higher performing education system.

Furthermore, the conference will offer an opportunity to facilitate the exchange and sharing of experiences among various Councils and/or similar institutions working in the field of education. Moreover, it will create space for reflection on institutional cooperation aimed at fostering partnerships, prioritizing common interests, and facilitating the exchange of experiences, knowledge, and best practices.

Key topics for discussion during the conference include:

• Education challenges in Africa: key findings;
• The state of education reforms in Africa;
• Dynamics and drivers of transformation;
• The role of education Councils and similar institutions in supporting the transformation of education systems in Africa.