Trends
Manufacturing, AfCFTA and the skills Africa needs
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aims to create a single market across the continent, making it easier for African manufacturers to sell to other African countries.
The manufacturing opportunity
More trade within Africa means more demand for locally made goods: food products, building materials, medicines, vehicles and electronics.
Skills manufacturers need
- machine operation and maintenance;
- automation and robotics;
- quality control and measurement;
- technical drawing and design;
- electrical and mechanical engineering.
Starting in school
These skills rest on physics, mathematics, chemistry and technical subjects. Practical experience in school makes learners more ready for technical training.
Labs that connect to industry
- Mechanics for machines and forces.
- Robot design for automation.
- Drawing and 3D modelling for design.
- Electrodynamics for electrical systems.
Systems thinking
Factories are systems. Understanding how power, materials and machines connect helps learners see their place in industry.
Partnerships
Schools and manufacturers can partner through visits, mentoring and internships.