July 18, 2026Day Two of the Africa Foundational Learning Exchange (FLEX) 2026 saw the IECD UNESCO category 2 delegation actively participating in parallel technical sessions. These were aligned with their respective areas of expertise and thus contributing to discussions on strengthening foundational learning systems across Africa.
Ms. Marie-Elle Nizeyimana, Research Officer, participated in discussions on Data, Assessment and Accountability, which highlighted how evidence, emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), and effective accountability systems can drive equitable education reforms and improve learning outcomes.
Mr. Alix Joubert, Director for Home-Based Child Care Services, attended the session on Teaching, Learning and Pedagogy, where participants examined practical, evidence-based approaches to improving classroom practice through structured pedagogy, teacher professional development, quality learning materials, and stronger monitoring and assessment systems.
Ms. Vanessa Seth, Director for International Cooperation and Exchange, joined discussions on Governance, System Alignment, Cost-Effectiveness and Financing. A key takeaway was the importance of investing in strong foundations rather than addressing learning gaps later in life. This echoes the simple analogy that a house is built from its foundation, not its roof. Participants emphasized that investing in foundational learning is far more effective and cost-efficient than incurring the much greater costs of addressing illiteracy at a later stage.
The delegation also attended the official opening ceremony, which brought together 35 Ministers of Education from 55 African Union Member States, alongside representatives from the African Union, the World Bank, philanthropic organisations, and other development partners. The high-level participation reaffirmed the continent’s collective commitment to advancing foundational learning since the initiative was first conceived in Sierra Leone in 2023 and endorsed by the African Union as the Theme of the Year for 2024. A strong message throughout the ceremony was that political leadership must lead the way, supported by development partners and donors in backing nationally driven priorities.
Speakers also emphasised that foundational learning extends well beyond learning to read and write. It begins with nurturing children’s cognitive, social and emotional development, enabling them to understand concepts, build relationships and acquire the skills needed for lifelong learning. This perspective aligns closely with IECD-UNESCO Category 2 mandate, highlighting the importance of investing in children from the very beginning—birth to three years—and recognizing these early years as the crucial foundation upon which all future learning is built.
The day concluded with an official dinner, providing delegates an opportunity to continue exchanging ideas and strengthening partnerships while experiencing Malawi’s rich cultural heritage through a vibrant performance by a traditional Malawian dance troupe.
The IECD-UNESCO Category 2 remains committed to promoting and championing quality foundational learning from birth and collaborating with partners across Africa to ensure that every child receives the strongest possible start in life.
