The Continental Education Strategy for Africa 2026–2035 (CESA 26–35) is the African Union’s strategic framework to advance inclusive, equitable, and quality education across the continent over the next decade. Building on the review and lessons of CESA 2016–2025, the strategy reaffirms education as a fundamental human right and a critical driver of peace, social cohesion, sustainable development, and economic transformation in Africa.

CESA 26–35 responds to persistent challenges such as low enrollment and completion rates, weak learning outcomes, limited financing, demographic pressure, climate shocks, conflicts, and the impact of digital transformation. It emphasizes a stronger focus on learning and skills acquisition—from foundational literacy and numeracy to socio-emotional, digital, and labor-market-relevant skills—while recognizing education as a lifelong process.

The strategy is structured around a clear framework for action comprising six strategic areas: (1) resources and enabling environments; (2) teachers, educators, and caregivers; (3) basic education and skills development; (4) higher education and TVET; (5) second-chance programs and lifelong learning; and (6) gender, equity, and inclusion. Cross-cutting themes include digitalization and artificial intelligence, greening education, and education in emergencies.

CESA 26–35 also outlines governance, implementation, communication, and monitoring mechanisms to support Member States, Regional Economic Communities, and partners in translating the strategy into effective national and regional actions, contributing to Agenda 2063 and global education goals.