Creators, education leaders and unlearners across Afrika joined the II Afrikan Ecoversities Gathering, held last November in the multi-functional house Prikkle Academy – a social enterprise in Nigeria creating rural innovation hubs to inspire youth to connect and create community solutions. The gathering inspired conversations and doings around the decolonization of formal educational systems and the re-connection with indigenous roots and ancestral knowledges, as well as an opportunity to explore and listen to each one’s gifts.
Below are some moments of the gathering captured in video and photographs, and an article featured in the Nigerian Tribune.
African educators advocate cultural preservation, education reform
They made the call during the second Afrikan Ecoversities Alliance Regional Gathering, hosted by Prikkle Academy in Afon, Asa Local Government Area of Kwara State. The event brought together educators, community leaders, and innovators from Benin Republic, Kenya, Rwanda, and Nigerian states such as Cross River, Lagos, Oyo, Kwara, and Kaduna.
Held from November 12 to 16, 2024, the gathering featured discussions on pressing issues, including reimagining education, honouring Mother Earth, climate change, plastic management, preserving African traditions, and youth development. The event emphasised integrating traditional knowledge with modern innovations to address Africa’s challenges.”
Read the full article at African educators advocate cultural preservation and education reform by Biola Azeez, Nigerian Tribune: https://tribuneonlineng.com/african-educators-advocate-cultural-preservation-education-reform/
“A highlight of the gathering was the cultural immersion activities. Participants visited Asa River, the site of the Afon Fishing Festival, and Shao, where they learned about the AWON Festival. They also explored Dada Pottery in Ilorin and the crafting of OFE textiles by Aso-Oke makers.
The event marked the second Afrikan Ecoversities Regional Gathering in Africa, following the inaugural event in Uganda in 2019. The Ecoversities Alliance has also hosted similar gatherings in India, Latin America, Asia, and Europe, creating a global platform for transformative learning.
Prikkle Academy served as the hub for the gathering. Known for its pioneering efforts, the Academy established Nigeria’s first grassroots maker space in Afon, providing a space for collaboration and innovation during the event.”
“The founder of Prikkle Academy, Fasoranti Damilola, highlighted the importance of connecting youth to community-driven solutions. “We inspire young people to discover their gifts of the head, hand, and heart, helping them address challenges in their communities through creativity and collaboration,” he said.
The gathering was facilitated by a team of passionate organizers, including Fasoranti Damilola, Wangüi wa Kamonji (Ecoversities Regional Weaver), Adam Abdulraheem (Programme Coordinator), Jamiu Balogun (Community Champion), and Ndzinga Dabutha (Communication Lead).
The Afrikan Ecoversities Alliance continues to promote reimagined education systems across Africa, blending local knowledge with innovative practices to create sustainable and community-driven solutions for the future.”
