This concept note is one, among other four, that presents the sequence of events that the Inter-Country Quality Node on Mathematics and Science Education (ICQN-MSE) initiated, in conjunction with the ADEA Secretariat, in preparing the ADEA 2017 Triennale, themed "Revitalizing Education Towards the 2030 Global Agenda and Africa’s Agenda 2063”. The Triennale is one of the pivotal forums in Africa that facilitates policy dialogue and knowledge sharing on education in Africa.

ICQN-MSE, working with other ICQNs such as Higher Education and Scientific Research (ICQN-HESR), oversaw the preparation of the concept paper on this sub theme, “using science, mathematics, technology, and ICT in education to drive Africa's sustainable development.”

The background is based on the realization, firstly, that technology and science are key to rapid changes in development, necessitating the need for specific competencies. Second, is the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goal 4 that emphasizes quality education for all by 2030. In addition, Africa’s Agenda 2063 and CESA 16-25 underscore the importance of education and skills development for Africa's advancement. Both agendas recognize the use of ICT in education as crucial for improving performance in core subjects such as mathematics and science, acknowledging that Africa is lagging in this area.