Africa’s growing youth population represents a tremendous opportunity for innovation, development and global leadership. Prioritizing foundational learning can unlock this potential and ensure every child is equipped to thrive in the Intelligent Age. With strategic investment in teaching and technology, we can close the learning gap and create a brighter, more inclusive future. As the world focuses on advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital innovation, millions of children in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are gaining attention as key drivers of the future workforce. Ensuring they acquire foundational skills in reading, maths and socio-emotional development is essential to their success and the collective prosperity of their communities. By addressing learning gaps now, we can empower these children to not only participate, but excel in an increasingly technology-driven world. In Africa, where the learning crisis is more pronounced than in many other parts of the developing world, the potential for change is immense. Currently, four out of five children on the continent struggle with basic literacy by the age of 10. Yet, Africa’s dynamic demographic trends — projecting that 42% of the global youth population will reside in Africa by 2030 — offer a powerful opportunity for transformation. With focused investments in foundational education, African youth can lead economic growth, drive innovation and shape a sustainable future for all. Transforming opportunity into outcomes begins with teachers and education The journey to equitable learning begins with empowering educators. Evidence shows that the most effective way to boost learning outcomes is by supporting teachers with structured pedagogy and targeted instruction that meets students where they are. Recent data from the Foundational Learning Action Tracker finds that across Africa, governments are making significant strides in some areas, such as ensuring children have access to school. In other areas, however, actions at scale are needed to increase the efficiency of instruction. Empowering teachers with effective pedagogical approaches is crucial to fostering foundational skills. With rapid technological advancement, providing digital solutions to support teachers holds the potential to improve instruction and quality of learning. Harnessing technology to amplify impact and close the learning gap Africa is leading the way in demonstrating how technology can expand access to education, personalize learning and inform policy through real-time data. Children need to attain their core foundational skills to acquire the digital skills to navigate and successfully utilize technologies. Initiatives, like adaptive learning platforms and low-cost digital tools, are reaching underserved communities and bridging the education gap. Importantly, these technological advancements must complement, not replace, the vital role of skilled teachers. Moreover, ensuring digital equity is a critical component of these efforts. Accessible and affordable digital content aligned with local curricula – available in native languages and inclusive of learners with special needs – can unlock opportunities for millions of children, even in the most remote regions. Empowering children with foundational skills positions them to harness AI and other emerging technologies to their advantage. A call to bold leadership and inclusive investment African countries are stepping up with innovative solutions to prepare children for the Intelligent Age. Governments in Rwanda and Sierra Leone, for instance, are advancing foundational learning through targeted programmes that embrace traditional teaching methods and cutting-edge technology. These initiatives highlight how bold leadership and strategic planning can drive transformative change. Equitable financing is pivotal to these efforts. A modest increase in public education funding directed towards the most vulnerable students could lift millions out of learning poverty. By prioritizing proven interventions, like targeted instruction, we can ensure resources have the greatest impact. Unlocking Africa’s full potential By closing the learning gap and equipping children with the foundational skills they need, we can transform the continent into a global hub of innovation and prosperity. The convergence of Africa’s learning potential fulfilled, youthful energy and rapid technological advancements presents an unparalleled opportunity for growth and leadership. At the African Union Continental Conference on Education (Dec 9–11, 2024, Nouakchott), four hundred participants, including four heads of state and almost 30 ministers and directors, called to end learning poverty by 2035, declaring the next ten years a Decade of Accelerated Action for education transformation, youth skills development and innovation in Africa. With collaborative action and strategic investments, Africa’s youth can lead the way in a rapidly evolving global economy, not only overcoming past challenges but setting the pace for the future. Together, we can turn potential into reality, building a world where every teacher is empowered to deliver quality learning and every child and young person benefits from these opportunities to thrive and succeed. This article is part of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting.