Education Jumps Up Africa’s Priority List, But Citizens Say Governments Are Falling Short – Afrobarometer
By Savinews Africa | Accra
Across Africa, education is fast becoming a frontline issue, not just in classrooms, but in public expectations of government performance.
A new Pan-Africa Profile by Afrobarometer reveals that education has climbed to third place on Africans’ list of most urgent national priorities, rising from sixth position in 2021/2023.
The finding reflects growing pressure on governments as families and young people increasingly see education as key to survival and opportunity in a tough economic climate.
Based on interviews with 50,961 citizens across 38 African countries in 2024/2025, the survey shows that education now ranks alongside the rising cost of living, infrastructure and water supply, trailing only health and unemployment.
However, optimism about government performance is far from universal. Only 49% of respondents say their governments are doing a good job addressing educational needs, while an equal proportion rate performance poorly.
The verdict is particularly harsh in countries such as Nigeria (24%), Angola, Chad, and Congo-Brazzaville, where fewer than one in three citizens approve of the government’s handling of education.
The report also highlights deep inequalities. While younger Africans are more educated than older generations, women, poorer households and rural residents remain at a disadvantage. Nearly 16% of adults report having no formal education.
Gender-related challenges persist as well.
Although most respondents say families no longer strongly favour boys’ education over girls’, almost three in 10 Africans (27%) report that schoolgirls often face discrimination, harassment or demands for sexual favours from teachers, a troubling indicator of abuse within learning environments.
On a positive note, there is strong public backing for inclusive education policies.
An overwhelming 81% of citizens agree that girls who become pregnant or have children should be allowed to continue their schooling, signalling growing support for girls’ rights and second chances.
Afrobarometer says the findings underscore both rising public demand for quality education and mounting pressure on African governments to deliver safer, fairer and more effective learning systems.
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