This document addresses the severe educational disruptions caused by the pandemic. The brief highlights that approximately 300 million learners in Africa were affected by school closures, leading to significant learning losses and an increase in out-of-school children and youth.

The brief outlines three key areas of support required to mitigate these impacts: support for learners, teachers, and school systems. For learners, it emphasizes the need for school re-entry programs, particularly for vulnerable groups, and strengthening guidance and counselling. For teachers, it advocates for enhanced ICT training to facilitate distance learning. For school systems, it stresses the importance of developing infrastructure, including ICT and WASH facilities, and building robust education data systems and emergency preparedness plans.

The policy brief calls on international and national development partners to collaborate with African governments to provide the necessary resources and support. It underscores the importance of investing in education to ensure resilience and continuity in times of crisis, aligning with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals.