For government officials and stakeholders, the return of the conference signals more than just an honour , it’s a chance to highlight the continent’s growing momentum in digital education.
“This is a huge opportunity for us,” said Professor Ladslaus Mnyone, Director of Science, Technology and Innovation at the Ministry of Education. “It’s not just about showcasing what we’re doing in Tanzania but about learning from others across the continent who are facing similar challenges.”
Now in its 18th edition, the conference brings together a diverse mix of experts, educators, investors, policymakers, and tech developers, all united by a shared goal: to use digital tools to strengthen education systems across Africa.
Tanzania has recently stepped-up efforts to integrate digital technologies into the classroom, recognising education as a foundation for growth in other sectors. “When you focus on education, you’re also supporting agriculture, health, and industry,” Mnyone explained. “Technology becomes a bridge; it connects solutions across all of these areas.”
He stressed the importance of working together as African nations, rather than trying to reinvent the wheel. “We face many of the same issues. If we can build technologies that reflect our realities, our needs, our human capacity, we’ll save time and resources, and we’ll create space for regional innovation.”
Mnyone also addressed concerns about digital divides, especially between generations. “Younger people are naturally more comfortable with tech, but we need to make sure everyone, regardless of age, feels part of this digital journey,” he said.
On the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI), he offered a grounded perspective. “AI is powerful, but it needs to serve our context. We shouldn't be trying to compete with the United States or China. We should be asking; How can this technology help our farmers? Our teachers? Our local industries?”
He added that by focusing on local solutions first, African countries can better control costs, improve adoption, and build technologies that make a lasting impact.
The eLearning Africa conference continues to act as a platform for sharing knowledge, sparking collaboration, and setting the direction for the continent’s digital education future.
--ChannelAfrica--
