The HCA Roundtable (UNGA 2023) – September 19th, 2023

78th Session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) 2023;

Human Capital Africa RoundTable: ‘’Our Children are not Learning: We Must Fix the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Crisis Now’’

Date: 19th September, 2023
Time: 12:30 PM, (GMT-4)
Location: The New York Harvard Club, New York, USA

Objectives of this event

We consider the side event at the 78th session of the UNGA a beacon of hope amidst the tumultuous challenges faced by the global community. It serves as a pivotal platform where the world’s most influential country leaders, policymakers,  and key decision-makers converge to address a crisis of paramount importance: the state of foundational learning in sub-Saharan Africa.  This gathering of heavy hitters, both global and continental influencers, epitomizes the urgency with which we must act to secure a promising future for the children of Africa. This event catalyzes change, galvanizing nations to adopt tested approaches and establish their own pathways to success. We wish to convert the powerful messaging and advocacy into action and commitment from countries.

Key objectives of our side event, therefore, include:

1. Ensuring that the momentum generated by the transformative discussions at the previous TES and ADEA Triennale events must not wane; it must be harnessed and translated into concrete action.
2. Ensuring that we seize the opportune moment to solidify commitments made by countries and ensure they are formally integrated into national agendas.
3. Work together to transform advocacy into tangible outcomes that will shape the trajectory of education in sub-Saharan Africa.
4. Emphasize the pivotal role of data, evidence, and best practices; discourse must be rooted in these essential elements, guiding participants towards effective strategies at the country level.
5. Share actionable insights and showcase successful models to empower policymakers to take targeted measures that will yield outcomes for the foundational learning sector.
6. Establish commendable Malawi’s plans and processes that serve as beacons of hope, exemplifying what can be achieved when a nation places learning at the heart of its priorities. This is to inspire other countries to emulate their remarkable efforts.
7. Raise global awareness, shining a spotlight on African champions who demand an end to the injustice that robs children of a promising future.

The stage is set for a momentous occasion. As the world watches, this side-event will serve as a clarion call for urgent action, uniting global and continental influencers in their steadfast determination to make foundational learning a top priority. Together, we have the power to change the narrative and secure a brighter future for the children of Africa.

Activities and Plan

To ensure these objectives are achieved, HCA plans to organize a side event at  UNGA 78  with a small number of high-profile guests, country representation, and partners.  

Duration: 90 minutes

Key activities during the side event (final order, topics, and speakers are yet to be finalized)

Tentative Agenda