A Conversation About Other People's Children: The Going Global Africa Regional Conference

Like many international platforms, the Going Global Conference provides participants and delegates with opportunities to engage, share knowledge, and learn from one another. Last year’s conference in Edinburgh was no different, but for me, it stood out because I knew the 2024 edition would be hosted in Africa, and I would take on the role of chief curator. As expected, I attended the sessions, listening intently to the conversations and questions.

A particular discussion changed my perspective on the work that we do as educators and system builders. A statement made by one of the discussants resonated deeply with me: “We will never make progress as a community of educators as long as we consider the issues we grapple with as those that affect other people’s children.” His words weighed heavily on my heart. The comparison to walking a mile in another’s shoes struck me profoundly. You can never truly understand a person's pain points unless you live them; your commitment remains limited as you can always remove the shoes and walk away.?

As a community of changemakers, it highlights the need to internalize the notion that the challenges we address are not just affecting "other people's children" but are central to the futures of all our children. This approach aligns with the African sense of community, which emphasizes collective responsibility and mutual support. In many African cultures, the well-being of one is seen as the well-being of all, encapsulated in the saying, "It takes a village to raise a child." This sense of community is integral to our approach, ensuring that we are all invested in the success and development of every child.?

As we designed the 2024 conference, my priority was to curate valuable, relevant discussions and ensure meaningful engagement that leads to actionable outcomes that impact young people. We aspire to support discourse that moves beyond theoretical frameworks and delves into practical strategies that can be implemented to make real differences in the lives of all young people.

In line with this ambition, this year’s themes have been carefully curated to address the most critical issues in the tertiary education sector, with a strong focus on youth. When institutions, systems, and processes are functional, young people have a higher probability of building sustainable livelihoods, supporting the development of prosperous communities, and driving economic growth. If the projected demographic dividends are properly harnessed, Africa is set to play a bigger role in shaping contemporary geopolitical and economic affairs. However, for this to happen, youth development, and the creation of functional systems and institutions that support improved outcomes for young people, need to remain at the heart of our discussions.

Some of the conference themes to be explored will include technology, youth mobility, entrepreneurship, partnerships that support community and institutional development, employability, and more. These topics are crucial for fostering an environment where young people can thrive and contribute meaningfully to their societies. By addressing these issues, we can create a framework that not only supports youth development but also propels the continent towards a more prosperous future.

The 2024 Conference aims to deepen dialogues which will foster real, impactful change. Success will require a commitment from all participants to engage deeply, share honestly, and collaborate effectively. It is not enough to merely discuss problems; we must develop and implement solutions that are sustainable and scalable.

To achieve this, the conference will incorporate interactive sessions, workshops, and real-time problem-solving activities. Delegates will have the opportunity to work in smaller groups, allowing for more intimate and productive discussions. These sessions are designed to generate actionable insights and foster collaborations that extend beyond the conference.

As we countdown, I urge all participants to approach this event with a mindset of collaboration and action. Let us use this platform to create meaningful, lasting change that goes beyond the conference room. By working together, we can ensure that the systems and processes we develop are inclusive, functional, and beneficial for all young people, not just those we consider "other people's children."

Finally, the event represents a unique opportunity to address the most pressing issues facing youth in Africa and beyond. It is a chance to rethink our approaches, challenge our assumptions, and commit to actions that will make a real difference. Let us seize this opportunity to create a better future for all young people, ensuring that their potential is recognized, nurtured, and realized. By doing so, we acknowledge that these are not just "other people's children" but the children of our global community, deserving of our utmost effort and dedication. This commitment to collective responsibility reflects the essence of the African community spirit, where every child's success is everyone's success!

For more information about the conference, check out the website for details