Population growth outpaces school enrollments in most SSA countries with the result that the number of children in the age group 6-11 who are not in school is higher today than it was in 1990. Africa could sustain a growth path but that this is contingent upon several critical factors. The first is strong, pragmatic, poverty-focused political leadership. All across Africa, such leadership is emerging. Secondly, countries need to put in place, economic and social policies that stimulate growth in an equitable manner.
Human development is key in that it stimulates and to supports economic growth.
Thirdly, countries need social stability. Countries need support to promote social cohesion and to build social capital. The fourth imperative is that external agencies need to increase aid in order to support and reinforce countries with strong policies and good governance. The level of resource flow to Africa needs to increase dramatically.