The FLEX2026 Report presents a comprehensive synthesis of the Third Africa Foundational Learning Exchange, held in Lilongwe, Malawi, from 15–17 July 2026. Organized by ADEA and the Government of Malawi, the event convened representatives from more than 42 African countries, development partners, and education leaders to assess progress in advancing foundational learning across the continent.

Structured around six thematic areas—political leadership and ownership, financing and equitable resourcing, data and accountability, scaling evidence-based pedagogy, partner coordination, and whole-child access and transition pathways—the report highlights proven practices while identifying persistent barriers that prevent successful initiatives from reaching scale. It emphasizes that sustained political commitment, strengthened national systems, and coordinated partnerships are essential to transforming policy commitments into measurable improvements in learning outcomes. Country case studies, including Somalia, South Sudan, and Niger, demonstrate how reforms can advance even in fragile and transition contexts.

The report concludes with a continental call to action, urging governments and partners to strengthen domestic financing, improve data-driven decision-making, integrate innovative technologies such as AI and EdTech responsibly, and ensure inclusive, equitable access to quality foundational learning. Overall, FLEX2026 positions implementation, accountability, and collaboration as the decisive factors for delivering foundational learning at scale across Africa.