Digital Solution for Education in Africa

Civil society organisations (CSOs) are key partners for international development cooperation as they represent citizens and their needs and have an in-depth knowledge of local processes. Civil society is capable of leading great movements for change, such as for civil rights, gender equality, and other social justice issues. This is a crucial factor when it comes to influencing social change outside of the family (private sphere), the market (private sector), and the government (public sector). The digital sphere is no exception to the rule. The influence and critical friend role of civil society is equally important for successful digital basic education ecosystems. For instance, the independent perspective and experience of NGOs, teachers’ unions, and parents’ associations can help to identify key challenges for digital transformation in education and to highlight and advocate for inclusivity. Solutions for digital basic education can hence be developed targeted to each country and specific context. As equally important actors, Ministries play an important role in the digital transformation of the education sector, as they are responsible for education policies and systems in many countries. They can promote the integration of digital technologies into education planning through policy decisions and financial support. Ministries can also support the training of teachers in digital skills and promote and scale innovative digital education initiatives. In addition, ministries can take measures to ensure that digital technologies are inclusive and accessible to all students, and that data protection and cyber security are ensured. Civil society organisations and ministries can work together and create synergies in the digital transformation of the education sector. CSOs, as key actors in civil society, can help address the needs and perspectives of students, teachers and educational institutions and develop innovative solutions. Ministries can promote the integration of digital technologies into education and strengthen collaboration with CSOs through policy decisions and financial support. Close colla­ boration, joint projects and partnerships can help to ensure that the needs of different stakeholders are taken into account and that digital technologies are successfully integrated into education. The BACKUP Initiative has worked with African CSOs and ministries for more than ten years. Drawing on experience and relationships, it was possible to incorporate practical knowledge in the development of digital basic education systems and to adapt them to local circumstances, thus ensuring their sustainability. with Civil Society and Ministries Cooperation 5. with Civil Society and inistries Digital Solutions for Education in Africa – 10 –

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