Bridging the gap in learning outcomes

What will it take to address Africa’s learning crisis, and why does progress depend on getting the basics right?

In this episode of the EdVance Podcast, Rapelang Rabana, Co-CEO of Imagine Worldwide, reflects on what teachers and systems across Africa are facing, and why foundational literacy and numeracy remain essential for sustained progress.

She explains the difference between schooling and learning, and why millions of children attend school without achieving basic mastery. Rapelang also shares how carefully designed technology can support personalised feedback at scale, even in settings without electricity, internet access or trained teachers.

The conversation reinforces a clear message. Strong learning foundations must come before advanced tools, including artificial intelligence and robotics.