Educators, community leaders, and innovators from Benin Republic, Kenya, Rwanda, and Nigerian states have called on policymakers across Africa to enhance efforts at reimagining education, preserving culture, addressing climate change, and promoting regeneration.
They made the call during the second Afrikan Ecoversities Alliance Regional Gathering, hosted by Prikkle Academy in Afon, Asa Local Government Area of Kwara State. The event brought together educators, community leaders, and innovators from Benin Republic, Kenya, Rwanda, and Nigerian states such as Cross River, Lagos, Oyo, Kwara, and Kaduna.
Held from November 12 to 16, 2024, the gathering featured discussions on pressing issues, including reimagining education, honouring Mother Earth, climate change, plastic management, preserving African traditions, and youth development. The event emphasised integrating traditional knowledge with modern innovations to address Africa’s challenges.
A highlight of the gathering was the cultural immersion activities. Participants visited Asa River, the site of the Afon Fishing Festival, and Shao, where they learned about the AWON Festival. They also explored Dada Pottery in Ilorin and the crafting of OFE textiles by Aso-Oke makers.
The event marked the second Afrikan Ecoversities Regional Gathering in Africa, following the inaugural event in Uganda in 2019. The Ecoversities Alliance has also hosted similar gatherings in India, Latin America, Asia, and Europe, creating a global platform for transformative learning.
Prikkle Academy served as the hub for the gathering. Known for its pioneering efforts, the Academy established Nigeria’s first grassroots maker space in Afon, providing a space for collaboration and innovation during the event.
The founder of Prikkle Academy, Fasoranti Damilola, highlighted the importance of connecting youth to community-driven solutions. “We inspire young people to discover their gifts of the head, hand, and heart, helping them address challenges in their communities through creativity and collaboration,” he said.
The gathering was facilitated by a team of passionate organizers, including Fasoranti Damilola, Wangüi wa Kamonji (Ecoversities Regional Weaver), Adam Abdulraheem (Programme Coordinator), Jamiu Balogun (Community Champion), and Ndzinga Dabutha (Communication Lead).
The Afrikan Ecoversities Alliance continues to promote reimagined education systems across Africa, blending local knowledge with innovative practices to create sustainable and community-driven solutions for the future.
READ MORE FROM: NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
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