Lifelong learning – The Case of Cameroon
Lifelong learning and innovation in Cameroon are rapidly evolving, driven by digital transformation initiatives, youth-focused tech education, and a push toward inclusive, sustainable development. Key initiatives include tech centers training thousands of children in AI and coding, while universities integrate digital tools (LMS) and partnerships to foster a skilled, entrepreneurial workforce.
Key Aspects of Lifelong Learning & Innovation in Cameroon:
- Digital Skills for Youth: Organizations like the Learning and Support Center for Information Technologies (KSI) have trained over 28,000 children, including many girls, in tech skills, preparing them for future innovation.
- Educational Transformation: The Cameroonian government is committed to enhancing lifelong learning, focusing on preschool expansion, functional literacy, and incorporating digital tools through platforms like Monecoleenligne and Sukulu-online.
- Higher Education & Industry Links: Universities are transitioning from traditional models to student-centered approaches, adopting the Bachelor-Master-Doctorate system and incorporating online learning (roughly 30% of curriculum at UBa). There is a push to bridge education with industry needs to foster a knowledge-driven economy.
- Inclusive Education: A new national policy aims to provide education for at least a quarter of people with disabilities by 2028, ensuring broader participation in the innovation ecosystem.
- 2026 Outlook: Upcoming conferences in 2026 will focus on digital education, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and sustainable, tech-driven solutions to foster continued innovation.
Key Challenges & Opportunities:
- Innovation Ecosystem: The need to shift from traditional teaching to a dynamic knowledge society is critical.
- Inclusivity: Efforts are underway to ensure education reaches rural areas and people with disabilities.
- Infrastructure: Expanding internet access for distance education remains a key, though developing, factor.
The focus is on nurturing a tech-savvy generation to drive Cameroon’s development, with a strong emphasis on integrating digital literacy at a young age.