The Interplay of Education and Free Trade: Opportunities and Challenges for Africa

Education gives man the requisite skill to participate in a globalizing economy, ensures productivity and innovation, and thereby attracts foreign investment-increasing trade. Free trade characterized by no tariffs and trade barriers allows for easy exchange of goods and services, widening markets for exporters and giving consumers greater access to products at lower prices. However, it does have its downside, like job losses in sensitive industries. In Africa, the relation of education and free trade has certain opportunities and challenges. With a very young productive age group, Africa could be a very strong player in global trade. However, building a productive workforce requires massive investments in education. The AfCFTA seeks to boost intra-African trade, but for success, countries still have to form a skilled labor base by seriously investing in education and training to overcome large skill deficiencies especially in the technological and manufacturing sectors. Besides this, there is added complexity through political instability, improper funding, and problems in the infrastructure. In conclusion, education and free trade will complement each other in bringing about much-needed economic development; for the continent to remain viable in a truly globalizing world, reforms to education and inclusiveness will have to be paramount.