The Relationship Between developed nations and Africa – the past, the present and the future?

This session will delve into the transformative role of media and entertainment in shaping Africa’s narrative on the global stage. Focusing on the intersection of culture, innovation, and business, the discussion will explore how African creatives and entrepreneurs are redefining the continent’s image through music. The speakers will share insights on building successful music ventures, bridging local stories with global audiences, and navigating challenges in production, distribution, and representation. Attendees will gain valuable perspectives on how the African media and music industries can thrive in a competitive global economy

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Africa faces significant challenges in education access, delivery, and quality, spanning from elementary to tertiary levels. These issues undermine the continent's ability to prepare its youth for a rapidly changing labor market and emerging industries. 98 million children and adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa are out of school.. On the delivery side, ~17 million additional teachers are needed to achieve universal primary and secondary education by 2030. The Fourth Industrial Revolution demands skills such as coding, AI, and digital literacy, which are often absent from traditional curricula. Local economies, unable to meet these demands, rely heavily on foreign talent for high-skilled jobs—highlighting deficiencies in the domestic education system and the urgent need for innovative approaches to address these gaps. This panel discussion seeks to explore how regional partnerships and innovative education models, particularly in STEM, can tackle these challenges, equip African youth with future-ready skills, and drive sustainable economic growth on the continent

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Thematic Networking Lunches offer a dynamic space for professionals to connect, exchange ideas, and build meaningful relationships over a shared meal. Each gathering is centered around a specific theme, sparking insightful discussions and fostering collaboration among like-minded individuals. Whether you're looking to gain fresh perspectives, explore new opportunities, or simply expand your network in a relaxed yet purposeful setting, these lunches provide the perfect opportunity to engage, learn, and grow.