At the ninth Africa Leadership Magazine Summit held in London, Arc. Sonny Echono, Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), has emphasized the critical importance of education and entrepreneurship as foundational elements for unlocking Africa’s potential and achieving greatness.
Receiving the Africa Leadership Excellence Award in Educational Development from Bahamas Prime Minister Philip Davis, Echono articulated the summit’s theme, “Africa Unleashed: Navigating Disruptions, Enhancing Opportunities,” as a clarion call for global leaders to collaborate on sustainable socio-economic strategies for the continent.
Echono urged the need for robust policies and innovative strategies to navigate the unique challenges facing Africa while capitalizing on available opportunities. He advocated for a multifaceted approach that includes leadership reforms, optimal utilization of funding for infrastructure projects, and enhancing regional integration across the continent.
Addressing the pressing issue of leadership, Echono highlighted the necessity for genuine democratic practices, good governance, and transparency as prerequisites for achieving political stability and fostering economic growth. He stressed the importance of effectively deploying international funds for major infrastructure initiatives, particularly in the sectors of energy, transportation, and communications.
On the topic of regional integration, Echono called for a renewed focus on intra-African trade and collaboration, emphasizing the need to leverage the continent’s collective strengths. He advocated for a revival of Africa’s cultural identity to enhance global partnerships and market access, while also stressing the importance of environmental sustainability and climate action.
Echono further underscored the urgent need to prioritize human capital by investing in healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation efforts to cultivate a skilled and productive population. He pointed out that empowering Africa’s youth through entrepreneurial education is vital for driving innovation and fueling economic growth.
Highlighting TETFund’s initiatives in Nigeria, Echono referenced programs aimed at bridging educational gaps, including funding for research and innovation through projects like Research for Impact (R4i) and the TETFund Alliance for Innovative Research (TETFAIR). These initiatives have successfully supported numerous prototypes and innovations with significant commercial potential.
Looking forward, Echono announced plans to establish new research laboratories, innovation hubs, and entrepreneurship centers across Nigeria. These initiatives are designed to foster groundbreaking research and development, enhance entrepreneurship, and create jobs that align with global standards.
Echono reiterated that linking education with entrepreneurship is essential for Africa’s development, job creation, and sustainable growth, positioning the continent for a brighter future.
