This document outlines a new Africa-led mechanism designed to accelerate foundational learning reforms across the continent. Developed under the leadership of the Association for the Development of Education in Africa (ADEA), FLIGHT connects countries’ reform priorities with African technical expertise and catalytic funding. Its purpose is to provide ministries with practical, in-country support to improve teaching quality, classroom practices, and learning outcomes—addressing the shortcomings of traditional donor-driven models.

Emerging from the 2025 Nairobi convening of ministers and education leaders, FLIGHT is positioned as a timely response to the continent’s commitment to eliminate learning poverty by 2035, as stated in the Mauritania Declaration, FLEX 2024, and CESA 26–35. The initiative emphasizes four core principles: government ownership and leadership, measurable classroom impact, lean and sequenced program design, and investments that strengthen local systems for long-term capacity and sustainability.

FLIGHT will be publicly launched at the 2025 ADEA Triennale in Ghana, with implementation structures and country selection set for mid-2026. Ministers are invited to engage through feedback, participation, and early pilot opportunities. By fostering African-led solutions and peer learning, FLIGHT aims to make foundational education reform faster, lighter, and more sustainable across the continent.