How to create inclusive education post-COVI-19 in Africa

The COVID-19 pandemic has thrown the education sector into turmoil worldwide. In Africa, the challenges are even more pronounced, with concerns about how to balance the need to resume schooling while ensuring the safety of students and teachers. Mandisa Mathobela, Head of Stakeholder Relations at Old Mutual, shared insights on how the private sector can support the education system during these unprecedented times in an interview with CNBC Africa. The key theme of the discussion centered around creating inclusive education post-COVID-19 in Africa, with a focus on leveraging partnerships and innovative solutions to bridge the gap between traditional learning models and the new normal of online education. One of the critical points raised in the interview was the necessity of inclusive educational initiatives that cater to students in rural and township areas where online learning is not a viable option due to cost and infrastructure challenges. Mathobela highlighted Old Mutual's collaboration with the Department of Education to provide educational content through various digital platforms, including print materials for learners who do not have access to online resources. The organization's commitment to supporting the metric class of 2020 in preparing for their final exams amidst the disruptions caused by the pandemic underscores the importance of targeted interventions to address immediate needs. Furthermore, Mathobela discussed the potential of online learning as a future component of education in Africa. While acknowledging the existing constraints in terms of infrastructure and resources, she emphasized the role of technology in overcoming these challenges. Old Mutual is spearheading the 'Africa's Biggest Classroom' initiative, aimed at establishing an online virtual classroom accessible to learners across the continent. This innovative approach seeks to enhance teacher training, provide diverse learning materials, and promote digital literacy, setting the stage for a post-COVID era of education. In addition to addressing the current educational landscape, Mathobela highlighted the importance of long-term partnerships with government entities and educational institutions to ensure sustainable progress in the sector. By collaborating with the National Education Collaboration Trust (NECT) and the Department of Education in South Africa, Old Mutual has been actively involved in supporting school systems and enhancing educational outcomes through targeted programs. The organization's focus on empowering teachers, students, and school leaders reflects a holistic approach to driving positive change in the education sector. As Africa navigates the challenges posed by the pandemic, initiatives like the 'Africa's Biggest Classroom' serve as a beacon of hope, signaling a shift towards more inclusive and technologically-driven education systems. Old Mutual's dedication to fostering partnerships, leveraging digital solutions, and addressing the immediate needs of students underscores a commitment to creating a brighter future for education post-COVID-19.