World Bank Africa - Youth Debate Challenge

The World Bank offices in Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe are hosting a dynamic and thought-provoking youth debate, which will bring together youth from each country. They will face off against each other as Team Serengeti and Team Zambezi, to discuss and debate the critical issues surrounding education and inclusive growth in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Debate motion: Should governments focus on quality of education now rather than expanding access?

Context
The latest edition of Africa’s Pulse titled, ‘Transforming Education for Inclusive Growth’, highlights the urgent need for the region's education sector to absorb approximately 170 million additional children and adolescents to achieve universal education by 2030. This ambitious goal requires the construction of 9 million new classrooms and the hiring of 11 million more teachers. Beyond the financial challenges, policymakers must prioritize improving learning outcomes and equipping youth with the skills necessary to thrive in today's rapidly changing economy. This debate will explore how education can position all Africans for success and which skills should be prioritized by policymakers.

Agenda

Opening Remarks

• Welcome by World Bank Country Director

• Introduction to the debate topic, context and rules of the game

Debate Session

• Team Serengeti and Team Zambezi present their arguments for and against the motion

• Interactive discussion and Q&A session with the audience

Closing Remarks 

• Summary of key points from the debate

• Brief discussion on directions for education policy and youth engagement

• Wrap-up by government representatives

In-country networking