NextBillion - An Initiative of the William Davidson Institute at the University of Michigan

Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott has announced a $12 million investment towards Educate!’s Vision for 2025 – our bold $44 million plan to increase employment and economic opportunity for 400,000 new youth and expand Educate!’s annual impact by 400%.

This catalytic new investment is a crucial step toward scaling solutions that tap into the potential and promise of Africa’s youth.

We know there has never been a more critical time for youth in Africa. With over 60% of the population under the age of 25, young people are a vital force that will shape the future of the continent. However, youth in Africa are facing the ongoing economic ripple effects of the pandemic coupled with serious and worsening challenges such as youth unemployment, poverty, gender injustice, and climate change.

Despite these challenges, we’ve never believed more in Africa’s young people. Equipped with relevant 21st-century skills and the tools to build their livelihoods, Africa’s youth are the key to unlocking a brighter future for the continent and the world. Africa is already the world’s youngest continent, and the population of youth is growing every day. Working together, we can help equip these young people with the skills and tools to build the futures they envision.

Photo courtesy of Jhon Dal.