COVID-19 Pandemic: Educational Disruption in Africa

The coronavirus diseases pandemic (COVID-19) has affected educational systems across the globe. This pandemic problem leads to closures of most of the learning centers including; colleges and universities. As of 18 April 2020, it was estimated that about 1.7 billion learners have been affected globally (1). In response to that the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) suggested the use of distance learning programs and open educational applications and platforms where teachers can use to reach learners and limit the disruption of educational system worldwide (2). Africa has taken the coronavirus pandemic seriously, following the confirmation of its first cases. Initial responses included the closure of schools, colleges and universities. The most important issues that hold serious implications in confronting the COVID-19 pandemic are online teaching, which is now being introduced as an alternative method to provide the educational content, and the economic consequences of the pandemic on African higher education. The UNESCO reports millions of African learners are experiencing disruption in their studies due to the closure of their learning institutions (3). The pandemic issue has triggered institutions to move their courses online. However, online learning is not that simple in Africa where only 24.0% of the population has access to the internet, and poor connectivity. To an increasing extent, the universities and higher education institutions are collaborating with internet providers and governments to conquer this challenge by negotiating zero-rated access to specific educational and websites. The effects of the pandemic on Africa’s education system cannot be overemphasized. If the COVID-19 pandemic continues, it may seriously impact the commitment of governments toward the higher education development (3).