31Jul

Education and the African Child

A Modern Conversation

Education is a cornerstone of development and a powerful tool for eradicating poverty and inequality. It holds the promise of a brighter future for everyone and in this case, for children across the African continent. Despite its potential, the journey to providing quality education for all African children is full of challenges—poverty, civil unrest/conflict, gender discrimination and lack of resources being some of the most significant barriers but amidst these obstacles, the resilience and potential of the African child shine through. In recent times, some people believe that “School is a Scam “. This view may seem convincing if, among other reasons, we think education is just about preparing individuals for specific jobs in certain industries but when we look at the bigger picture, this argument does not hold up. Education is more than a pathway to employment; it is a holistic development process that fosters intellectual growth, critical thinking and life skills essential for navigating complex environments.

Even with the advent of artificial intelligence and tools like ChatGPT, Bard, Claude, Perplexity and so much more, school remains an invaluable institution. AI can provide information, assist with tasks and offer learning support but it cannot replace the comprehensive educational experience: the interestingly rigorous demands of student life – intense lecture schedules, numerous assignments, self-directed projects and successive exams – that helps to cultivate an intellectual capacity that extends beyond the confines of specific job roles. These academic challenges equip graduates with the ability to manage complex tasks, adapt to new fields, think on their feet and cultivate innate skills like assertiveness, courage and/or improved self-concept skills. They foster high self-drive and resilience, qualities indispensable in any professional or personal pursuit. Moreover, many graduates pursue interests outside their primary fields of study and find that the skills they developed in school, are valuable across different fields

Some argue that schools only teach theories without practical applications. However, Dr. Henrietta Onwuegbuzie from Lagos Business School, offers a different perspective: she explains that theories summarize practical experiences. This insight highlights how theoretical learning is essential for practical applications and contradicts the claim that school is merely a scam. For the African child therefore, access to quality education is a gateway to realizing their full potential. It is about more than academic achievements; it is about acquiring life skills like resilience, delayed gratification and time management. These skills are honed within the school system by students who fully engage with the educational process. However, millions of African children remain deprived of this transformative experience due to systemic barriers. Addressing these challenges require a concerted effort to dismantle the obstacles that hinder access to education.

RMF is committed to this mission by resolutely providing educational opportunities to every talented child. We invest in a future where the potential of the African child can be fully realized, driving the continent towards sustainable development and prosperity. We believe in a secure, inclusive and quality education system that prepares children for future opportunities and challenge

Support Our Programs

We invite you to join us in our mission to transform lives through education. Your support can profoundly impact countless talented children. By contributing to our programs, you help provide learning materials, empower families and establish safe learning environments where children can thrive.

How You Can Help:

Donate to our scholarship funds, volunteer your time or simply spread the word about the Rex Mafiana Foundation.

Bank Account Details for Donations:

Bank Name: Zenith Bank PLC

Account Name: Rex Mafiana Foundation.

Account Number: 1228671472

When you support our programs, you invest in the future of Africa’s children. Together, we can ensure that every talented child has the opportunity to learn, grow and achieve their dreams.

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