“Education then, beyond all other devices of human origin, is the great equalizer of the conditions of  men, the balance-wheel of the social machinery.” ~Horace Mann~ 

What is education? Education is a process where a person: develops skills essential to daily living, learns social norms, judgment and reasoning, and how to discern right from wrong. Quality education is the hallmark of a progressive society. Good Education gives people the path to better lives. It enhances critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. It promotes lifelong learning and adaptability in a constantly evolving world. Those who pursue education often experience heightened self-esteem and confidence as they acquire new skills and knowledge. 

A person’s fate is too often determined by the education the person receives at an early age. The  difference between a life of promise and a life in peril rests not on a student’s potential but on the  quality education of the school system. Therefore, a nation has a choice to make–whether it will allow  education to be a wedge that widens inequality or will use its power to create opportunity for all. Nelson  Mandela’s statement that education is the most powerful weapon which we can use to change the  world resonates deeply in the context of Africa’s struggle against extreme poverty. 

Across the globe, education is a proven determinant of economic mobility, and in Sub-Saharan Africa, it  holds the potential to be transformative. A recent Africa Pulse Report, “Transforming Education for  Inclusive Growth”, highlights how prioritizing introductory learning, skills development, and education to-employment transitions can unlock unprecedented economic growth and poverty alleviation. In  Africa 90% of children cannot read or comprehend a simple text by age 10. Barriers such as inadequate  pre-primary education, economic pressures, and poor school facilities contribute to this alarming  statistic. Additionally, significant resource disparities exist between low-income and high-income  countries. For instance, governments in Sub-Saharan Africa spend an average of $54 per student  annually, compared to $8,500 in wealthier nations, leaving schools severely under-resourced.  Transforming Education for Inclusive Growth is a critical component of nation building.  

Ethiopia is a weak performer in terms of its knowledge infrastructure. It ranks 139th out of 154  countries in the Global Knowledge Index 2021 and 13th out of the 27 countries with low human  development. In 2023, the Ethiopian government launched an ambitious national education reform, the  Ethiopian Education Transformation Program (EETP). This reform aims to improve learning outcomes for  all children in the general education system. However, to implement such a lofty ambition and  drastically, requires unparalleled political will and commitment. Unleashing the power of education as  Ethiopia seems to understand is forging the right path but its future—democratizing education– remains  doubtful.

Education is instrumental in nurturing social unity and civic involvement. Educated individuals are more  inclined to engage in democratic processes, volunteer in their communities, and make positive societal  contributions. Research indicates that higher educational attainment aligns with increased voting rates  

and civic participation. Education also facilitates social mobility by offering individuals from  underprivileged backgrounds the chance to elevate their socio-economic standing. Educations ultimate  advantage is its capacity to empower individuals through knowledge. Education arms people with the  tools required for informed decision-making, critical information analysis, and active societal  participation. It saves society from a mob mentality syndrome. 

In this 11^th May Forum, AWiB explores the impact of uneducated society and the devastating  effect on the future generation bound to lead the nation. 

The Dialogue–Running on Empty: Education and Ethiopia 

“Inclusive, good-quality education is a foundation for dynamic and equitable societies”. ~Desmond Tutu~ 

The dialogue Running on Empty captures the stark reality of Ethiopia’s education system—a system that,  despite years of expansion, is struggling to sustain itself. Running on empty is more than a metaphor; it  reflects the exhaustion of an education sector that has been stretched beyond its limits, operating with  dwindling resources, outdated curricula, undertrained teachers, and an ever-growing student  population. 

As a country, Ethiopia is running on empty in education because we have prioritized access over quality,  expansion over sustainability. Schools are overcrowded, infrastructure is crumbling, and learning  outcomes remain alarmingly low. Teachers, the backbone of the system, are overburdened and  underpaid, leading to declining motivation and effectiveness. The rapid increase in enrollment has not  been matched with adequate investment, resulting in a system that is failing to equip students with the  critical skills needed for the modern world. 

The consequences of this crisis are far-reaching. A generation of students is graduating without the  competencies required to compete in a global economy. The disconnect between education and the  labor market has led to high youth unemployment, while social inequalities persist as quality education  remains a privilege rather than a right. In past years, attempts at reform have struggled against systemic  inefficiencies, political instability, and a lack of long-term vision. Without urgent intervention, Ethiopia  risks losing its demographic advantage, with a poorly educated workforce unable to drive the country’s  development. 

This dialogue seeks to confront these challenges head-on, bringing together stakeholders to reimagine  an education system that is not just surviving, but thriving. Ethiopia’s education system has long been  recognized as a crucial driver of national development, serving as the foundation for economic growth,  social mobility, and innovation. However, despite significant progress in expanding access to education 

over the past decades, the system faces critical challenges that hinder its effectiveness. The theme  “Running on Empty” encapsulates the urgent need for reform and innovation to revitalize the education  sector. This forum aims to foster dialogue among stakeholders, inspire actionable solutions, and develop  a comprehensive roadmap for meaningful change. 

Challenges Facing Ethiopia’s Education System 

Quality of Education – One of the primary concerns in Ethiopia’s education system is the lack of quality.  Outdated curricula fail to equip students with the necessary skills for a rapidly evolving job market. The  shortage of qualified teachers exacerbates the problem, as many educators lack proper training and  resources to deliver effective instruction. Additionally, inconsistent educational standards between  urban and rural areas further widen the knowledge gap among students. 

Leadership Gaps and Policy Implementation – Leadership at all levels plays a pivotal role in shaping  educational success. Poor leadership results in ineffective policy implementation, misallocation of  resources, and lack of accountability. Weak governance contributes to stagnation, while strong  leadership fosters innovation, strategic investment, and educational excellence 

Access and Equity- Disparities in access to education persist, particularly across different regions and  between genders. While urban centers enjoy better educational facilities, rural areas often lack basic  infrastructure, leading to lower enrollment and high dropout rates. Financial barriers also prevent low income families from keeping their children in school, while marginalized communities, including people  with disabilities, face significant challenges in obtaining quality education. 

Infrastructure and Resources- Insufficient school facilities, outdated learning materials, and inadequate  technological integration contribute to the inefficiency of the education system. The digital divide  remains a major issue, with limited access to e-learning resources and technological tools in rural  communities. Furthermore, inefficient resource allocation and limited funding prevent significant  improvements in the sector. 

Policy and Governance- A lack of cohesive policies and weak implementation strategies undermine  education reforms. Policies frequently change without adequate assessment or continuity, leading to  inconsistencies in education planning. Additionally, weak linkages between educational institutions and  industries result in graduates who are ill-prepared for the labor market. Corruption and bureaucratic  inefficiencies further erode the effectiveness of the system, hindering progress toward equitable  education. 

Impact of Conflict and Instability- Political instability and regional conflicts disrupt education, leading to  school closures and displacement of students and teachers. Restoring stability is essential to ensuring  continuous and effective learning.  

Ethiopia’s education system has undergone several transformations over the years, influenced by political shifts, economic conditions, and global trends. Historically, education was limited to religious  institutions before modern schooling systems were introduced in the early 20th century. Significant 

reforms were implemented in the post-revolutionary era, emphasizing mass education and literacy  campaigns. 

Despite these efforts, the education system has struggled to keep pace with the demands of a growing  population and a shifting economy. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed further vulnerabilities, including a  lack of digital learning capabilities and inadequate crisis management strategies. Economic challenges  have also exacerbated existing issues, making it imperative to reassess and strengthen the system. 

In recent years, Ethiopia has undertaken ambitious education reforms aimed at improving quality,  access, and equity. The General Education Quality Improvement Program (GEQIP) has focused on  enhancing teacher training, revising curricula, and strengthening school leadership. Efforts have also  been made to integrate digital learning solutions and expand technical and vocational education to align  with labor market needs. 

However, the implementation of these reforms has faced several obstacles, including inadequate  funding, resistance to change, and administrative inefficiencies. The shift to competency-based learning  has been met with challenges in teacher preparedness and infrastructure limitations. Additionally,  political instability and economic constraints have disrupted the continuity of reforms, requiring  renewed commitment from all stakeholders. 

Education plays a fundamental role in shaping effective leadership. A strong education system cultivates  critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and ethical decision-making—qualities essential for  transformative leadership. The current deficiencies in Ethiopia’s education system hinder the  development of capable leaders across various sectors. Addressing these challenges will not only  improve educational outcomes but also enhance governance, business leadership, and civic  engagement. 

Leadership in the education sector itself must also be revitalized. Strong, visionary leaders are needed to  drive reforms, implement policies effectively, and inspire collective action. By investing in leadership  development within educational institutions, Ethiopia can create a pipeline of competent professionals  who will drive national progress. 

The challenges facing Ethiopia’s education system demand urgent attention and collective action. This  forum serves as a platform to identify solutions, engage stakeholders, and commit to meaningful  reforms. By fostering dialogue, strengthening policies, and investing in education, Ethiopia can build a  resilient and dynamic education system that fuels national development and prepares future leaders.  The time to act is now. 

Talking Points 

• How do issues relate to quality, access, infrastructure, and governance affect national  development and economic growth? 
• How do the barriers to education for marginalized communities, especially in rural areas,  contribute to inequality?
• How have political instability, economic constraints, and inconsistent reforms shaped the  current state of education? 
• How can the education system better nurture critical thinking and leadership skills that are vital  for national progress? 
• How can evidence-based policies, community engagement, investments in infrastructure, and  public-private partnerships drive meaningful change? 
• How can timely and sustained reforms revitalize the education system to meet the needs of the  economy and society? 

Parallel Session I–Reskilling & Upskilling in the Digital Era 

“In a world of constant change, the spoils go to the nimble and adaptable – those who can learn and  unlearn with equal ease.” ~ Tom Flick~ 

Ethiopia faces a growing digital skills gap, with many workers lacking the necessary expertise in AI,  automation, and remote work. Limited access to digital education and an education system focused on  theory rather than practical skills have left many unprepared for the evolving job market. To bridge this  gap, we must invest in reskilling and upskilling programs, expanding vocational training, integrating  digital literacy in education, and establishing partnerships between industries and educational  institutions. Government initiatives, private sector involvement, and online learning platforms can help  equip the workforce with job-ready skills, ensuring economic growth and global competitiveness. 

Reskilling involves learning new skills to transition into a different job or industry, helping workers adapt  to changing job markets. Upskilling focuses on enhancing existing skills to stay competitive in an evolving  field. As technology rapidly transforms industries, continuous learning is essential for career growth and  

job security. Companies invest in reskilling and upskilling programs to bridge skill gaps, improve  productivity, and future-proof their workforce. Online courses, workshops, and vocational training are  key tools for skill development. Emphasizing lifelong learning ensures individuals and businesses remain  adaptable in an increasingly digital and automated world. 

The digital era is transforming jobs and skills, with automation and AI replacing routine tasks while  creating demand for new, tech-driven roles. As industries shift toward a knowledge-based economy,  skills like digital literacy, critical thinking, and adaptability are increasingly essential. The internet and  online learning have expanded access to global job opportunities and skill development, but challenges  in local implementation, such as infrastructure and affordability, remain. To stay competitive, workers  must continuously reskill and upskill, while businesses and governments must invest in education and  training programs to prepare the workforce for the evolving digital landscape. 

Ethiopia’s future of work is being reshaped by digitalization, impacting industries like finance,  agriculture, education, and manufacturing through automation and AI. To thrive in a digital-first 

economy, workers must develop skills in data analysis, coding, cyber-security, and digital marketing  alongside critical thinking and adaptability. Preparing for remote work and global job opportunities  requires investment in digital infrastructure, internet access, and online education. Strengthening  reskilling and upskilling programs will help Ethiopia build a competitive, tech-savvy workforce for the  future economy. 

Online upskilling opportunities are transforming professional development through accessible, flexible  learning. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, EdX, and LinkedIn Learning offer diverse courses in business,  technology, and soft skills. Coding boot camps such as Gebeya, Africa Code Week, ALX, A2SV, and  Andela provide specialized tech training. AI-powered personalized learning tailors content to individual  needs, while VR and AR training simulations enhance hands-on skills. Digital credentials and micro certifications are gaining recognition, allowing learners to showcase expertise without traditional  degrees. These opportunities empower individuals to stay competitive in an evolving job market and  bridge skill gaps in the digital economy. 

Offline upskilling opportunities provide hands-on learning essential for career growth. Vocational  training and apprenticeships equip individuals with practical skills in industries like construction,  manufacturing, and healthcare. Soft skills development programs enhance critical thinking,  communication, and leadership abilities, making workers more adaptable. Community-based learning  programs offer local workshops focused on skill-building, entrepreneurship and job readiness.  Mentorship and networking opportunities connect learners with industry professionals, providing  guidance and career advancement. Investing in these offline learning methods helps bridge skill gaps,  ensuring individuals remain competitive in a rapidly evolving job market while strengthening local  economies and industries. 

Talking Points

• Is reskilling and upskilling practiced in Ethiopia and is it seen as a priority?
• What would happen if the workforce of a nation like Ethiopia does not reskill or upskill? 
• How would rapid digitalization impact a society with low levels of digital literacy? 
• How does digital finance affect women, those who are not educated, and those who are not  economically empowered?

Parallel Session II–Critical Thinking: An Antidote to Misinformation 

“An education isn’t how much you have committed to memory, or even how much you know. It’s being  able to differentiate between what you know and what you don’t.” ~ Anatole France~ 

In today’s digital age, critical thinking is more essential than ever. Misinformation, propaganda, and  biased reporting spread rapidly, making it crucial for individuals to differentiate fact from fiction. Critical  thinking allows people to analyze news, social media, and academic research objectively, preventing  manipulation through false claims or emotional appeals. 

Critical thinking involves questioning assumptions, assessing evidence, and forming independent  opinions. It requires logical reasoning, problem-solving, and open-mindedness. By evaluating sources,  recognizing biases, and applying evidence-based analysis, individuals can break down complex ideas,  identify inconsistencies, and construct well-reasoned arguments. Key aspects of critical thinking include  analysis, evaluation, and logical reasoning. Objectivity ensures neutrality, while identifying biases helps  minimize external influences. Clear communication enhances creativity, innovation, and decision making by encouraging multiple perspectives. 

Ethiopia’s education system has historically prioritized rote memorization over analytical skills, limiting  students’ ability to think critically. The curriculum focuses on factual recall rather than inquiry-based  learning, and standardized exams reward memorization instead of comprehension. Additionally, many  teachers were trained in a system that lacks critical thinking methodologies. While educational reforms  aim to build analytical thinking, implementation challenges persist due to limited resources and  inadequate teacher training. 

Globally, leading education systems integrate critical thinking into their curricula. Finland prioritizes  student autonomy and inquiry-based learning, while the U.S. uses the Socratic method to encourage  debate and evidence-based reasoning. Singapore promotes applied learning in STEM education, and  

Japan emphasizes group discussions and reflective learning. Germany includes philosophy and logic in its  curriculum, and the UK encourages debate culture through programs like the IB. Australia requires  students to construct arguments through inquiry-based learning, while Canada uses project-based  education to develop independent reasoning. These approaches prepare students to analyze  information critically, combat misinformation, and make informed decisions. 

Misinformation—false or misleading information spread without malicious intent—has become  widespread, influencing public opinion, policies, and personal beliefs. A key driver is the lack of fact checking in traditional and digital media, where speed often outweighs accuracy. Social media  algorithms amplify sensational content, fueling the rapid spread of exaggerated or false narratives.  Some groups intentionally spread misinformation for political, ideological, or financial gain, while echo  chambers reinforce biased perspectives, making false claims harder to challenge. 

Misinformation has severe consequences. Globally, it has influenced elections, incited violence, and  fueled distrust in governments. COVID-19 misinformation worsened vaccine hesitancy, exacerbating the  pandemic’s impact. In Ethiopia, misinformation has intensified ethnic tensions, political instability, and 

social divisions, often spreading through social media. It distorts facts during conflicts and misleads  citizens on economic and health issues. Limited digital literacy worsens the problem. To combat  misinformation, governments, media, and civil society must promote fact-checking, digital literacy, and  responsible information-sharing to protect stability and democracy. 

Critical thinking is key in addressing misinformation. Fact-checking, questioning sources, and cross referencing reliable outlets prevent the spread of false narratives. Media literacy and education  empower individuals to identify credible information. Fact-checking platforms and awareness campaigns  in Ethiopia address misinformation, particularly in politics and public health.  

Globally, organizations like the International Fact-Checking Network promote critical thinking through  education. Digital tools such as fact-checking websites, reverse image search, and AI-powered platforms  help verify information. By integrating critical thinking skills and verification tools, societies can combat  misinformation and promote a more informed, truth-driven public. 

Talking Points

• How can we adopt critical thinking in a rapidly changing information landscape?
• What tools are there to cultivating critical thinking? 
• What factors contribute to the spread of misinformation locally and globally? 
• How can we use critical thinking to combat misinformation in Ethiopia? 

Afternoon Session–Women in Lead: The Invisible Hurdle & Its Impacts 

“We are only as blind as we want to be.” ~Maya Angelou~  

ሴት በማጀት፤ ወንድ በችሎት 

ሴት ወደ ማዕድቤት፤ ወንድ ወደ ሰግነት 

ሴት ለቤት፤ ወፍጮ ለዱቄት 

ሴት ብታውቅ፤ በወንድ ያልቅ 

የሴት አገሯ ባሏ፤ ማደሪያዋ አመሏ

Our sayings, such as “Women belong in the kitchen, men in the courtroom” or “Women belong at home, men on the high bed,” reflect the values deeply embedded in our society. These expressions suggest that women are meant to nurture, care for the home, and support men, while men are seen as strong, capable leaders, suited for business, power, and public life. These beliefs, which are passed down through generations, shape societal expectations, often limiting women’s opportunities and reinforcing biases about gender roles.

These ingrained and unchallenged beliefs create invisible hurdles for women. They often go unnoticed but have real effects that influence political, educational, economic, and social decisions. Opportunities aren’t always directly denied to women; rather, these deeply held beliefs influence how society expects women to behave, think, and act. These norms are subtle, making it harder for women to rise in power or even accept leadership roles when offered. 

Some argue that women should remain in traditional roles, claiming that men are naturally suited to leadership and protecting the family, community, and nation. They defend this view as a cultural and historical truth. On the flip side, others contend that such biases, whether conscious or subconscious, create invisible barriers that keep women underrepresented in leadership positions. By limiting women to support roles, they argue, we only reinforce patriarchal structures that fuel chaos, corruption, and inequality. So, is tradition a valid defense, or is it simply a tool for maintaining a dysfunctional status quo? 

The first step toward change is awareness. We must sharpen our critical thinking skills to identify the subtle ways unconscious biases influence our decisions and interactions. We can create a new reality for ourselves and future generations by questioning our assumptions and unlearning old patterns. Women must take bold actions, speak out, challenge the status quo, and uplift one another, especially in a world where patriarchy is deeply embedded. Women should lead the charge against these toxic norms plaguing society, yet many defend the status quo, seemingly enamored by the unaccountability it grants.

Our society silences outspoken women, making silence appear safer for those seeking comfort. It is the norm to mock women who celebrate their successes, turning achievements into a source of guilt for women. This creates a culture where personal growth is stifled, and stagnation for women becomes the ever-accepted norm without question. We must ask: What deep-rooted biases have been instilled that hinder women from challenging these norms and taking leadership roles? It’s time we reflect and confront these biases to dismantle the dysfunctional status quo we have built.

Talking Points

• What is the status quo when it comes to the role of men & women? 
• What are the unconscious and subconscious biases that led to this status quo? How do these biases form and guide our thoughts, decisions & actions? 
• What are the consequences of not having enough female leaders?
• What role does critical thinking have in breaking down these invisible hurdles?
• Does the Ethiopian education system and family structures reinforce or dismantle these hurdles?
• Why do women mostly face the unfair consequences of these biases coming from themselves and/or other women? Why don’t women support one another especially when they come to leadership roles?
• Discuss and share knowledge, skills, and experience on navigating through these invisible hurdles.. Share what you do to support other women who are facing challenges related to the invisible hurdles

Invitation

Join AWiB on Thursday, 29th of May, 2025, at the UNCC for a one-day forum with prominent speakers—eminent personalities and leaders—to be inspired and re-energized, and to work on your next steps of personal, business, and professional development.

View Event

Sources

1. Asgedom, Amare, Tassew Woldehanna, and Claire Rolleston. 2024. “Rising Access and Falling Outcomes: Educational Change and the GEQIP Reforms in Ethiopia.”
2. Woldehanna, Tassew, and Medhin Tassew. 2020. Understanding the Impact of Large-Scale Educational Reform on Students’ Learning Outcomes in Ethiopia: The GEQIP-II Case. 
3. World Bank. 2015. “Providing Ethiopia’s Children with Quality Education.” World Bank, April 6, 2015.
4. Reskilling and Upskilling in Africa’s Workforce Transformation, Talenteum 
5. Reskilling and Upskilling: Bridging the Skills Gap for a Changing Workforce, Talent PEO Africa
6. What is Critical Thinking? University of Louisville, Delphi Center 
7. Misinformation and disinformation, American Psychological Association 
8. Understanding Support and Barriers for Women Leaders in Ethiopia, EMAH Social Development Consulting 
9. The Impact of Unconscious Bias on Women’s Career Advancement, Amarette Filut, Anna Kaatz, and Molly Carnes 
10. 2023 Gender Social Norms Index (GSNI), UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) 
11. “Unlearning” Automatic Biases: The Malleability of Implicit Prejudice and Stereotype, Laurie A. Rudman, Richard D. Ashmore, and Melvin L. Gary Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

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