Coalition on Media and Education for Development Africa Forum
The Coalition on Media and Education for Development Africa Forum (CAFOR) is a Pan-African, multi-stakeholder platform focused on enhancing Africa’s education systems, building youth capacities, and promoting sustainable development. The organization works with governments, civil society, academia, the media, and development partners to align African education with the evolving demands of the labor market. By emphasizing communication as a driver of reform, CAFOR has become an influential voice in shaping educational policies and practices across the continent.
Its mission is grounded in the belief that Africa’s prosperity hinges on empowering young people with the right skills, knowledge, and opportunities to thrive in a global economy. Through advocacy, strategic partnerships, and targeted initiatives, CAFOR is committed to bridging the gap between education and employability.
Vision and Mission
CAFOR envisions an Africa where young people are equipped to compete in a rapidly changing world. Its mission is to strengthen the nexus between education and workforce needs by:
- Facilitating collaboration among governments, educators, and the private sector.
- Promoting effective communication and policy dialogue.
- Supporting the integration of labor market demands into curricula and training programs.
The coalition recognizes that education reform must be inclusive, evidence-based, and strategically aligned with both national priorities and continental frameworks.
Strategic Framework
CAFOR’s Strategic Plan 2020–2024 provides a blueprint for action, fully aligned with:
Agenda 2063** of the African Union. Continental Education Strategy for Africa (CESA 16–25). Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA 2024). United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This framework ensures CAFOR’s initiatives contribute to Africa’s socio-economic transformation by emphasizing innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability.
Partnership with the African Union
A defining milestone for CAFOR was the signing of a **Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)** with the African Union Commission on **18 January 2019**. This partnership aims to:
- Support education reforms in AU member states.
- Enhance youth employability and workforce participation.
- Promote sharing of research, policy innovations, and best practices.
- Mobilize funding for youth-focused educational programs.
This agreement underscores a shared commitment to embedding the principles of the SDGs and Agenda 2063 within African education systems.
Key Activities
CAFOR undertakes a diverse range of programs to achieve its objectives:
Policy Advocacy – Convening forums for policymakers, youth, and experts to exchange ideas. Capacity Building – Offering training, research, and institutional support. Publications – Producing reports like the **Triennial Report (2021–2023)** and **Concept Note Supporting Agenda 2063**. Media Engagement – Using media platforms to drive awareness and policy influence.
Its work bridges the gap between technical research and actionable reforms, making it a catalyst for educational transformation.
Governance and Leadership
The organization is led by a **Chairperson**, an **Executive Director**, and a **Secretariat**, with strategic oversight provided by an Executive Board. In **2025**, CAFOR initiated a governance restructuring to improve efficiency and responsiveness in the face of Africa’s evolving education challenges.
Impact and Outlook
Through regional and continental collaborations, CAFOR has positioned itself as a trusted partner in advancing Africa’s development agenda. Its advocacy for innovation, youth empowerment, and inclusive education policies continues to shape the continent’s progress toward becoming competitive, resilient, and equitable.