Renowned Pan-Africanist and anti-corruption advocate, Professor P.L.O. Lumumba, has issued a passionate call for African nations to take a hard look at their education systems, warning that without bold reforms, the continent risks falling further behind in the 21st century.

Speaking at the University of Education, Winneba (UEW) Public Lecture Series on Friday, April 11, Prof. Lumumba lamented what he described as a persistent “missing link” in African education that continues to undermine progress across sectors.

“There is a missing link somewhere,” he declared. “Until the day we have the courage to find that missing link, then we are not preparing for the 21st century.”

According to the Kenyan academic, Africa’s current model of education remains ill-suited to the demands of the modern world.

He noted that in many parts of the continent, education systems still prioritise rote learning and theoretical knowledge, rather than innovation, critical thinking, and practical skills that can transform economies.

“We must re-examine our education system,” Prof. Lumumba insisted, “even in matters as mundane as sports, which is a multi-billion-dollar industry.”

He drew attention to the stark contrast between how sports is treated in Africa and how it is integrated into educational systems elsewhere.

“The United States of America offers our young men and women scholarships to study sports,” he observed.

He added “Why are we not doing the same in Africa? Why do we not treat it as a serious academic and economic discipline?”