Ajay Lachhman – Mauritius Trade Union Congress MTUC
Seeking a vote at the United Nations Council is moving in a complex labyrinth. The process demands an international consensus among partners from diverse fields to create a resonant impact and positive responses from officers across various UN agencies. At its core, the journey begins with initiating dialogues with both governmental and non-governmental organizations, necessitating an intricate social marketing approach.
This intricate process unfolded against the backdrop of the Continental Education Conference, hosted at the Southern Sun Hotel in South Africa, which served as a pivotal moment in our collective pursuit. The Conference provided a platform to bring together stakeholders, setting the stage for collaboration that align with the objectives of Project 26
The international conference program in South Africa was an encounter of individuals from diverse backgrounds, all converging with a shared purpose. This diverse representation exemplified the unity in our collective pursuit of common educational goals.
A highlight of this transformative experience was the honour of associating with the esteemed Minister of Basic Education, Hon. Angie Motshekga, representing the Republic of South Africa. Her presence underscored the urgent need for improved global educational conditions, adding weight to our cause..
The resonant voices of progressive thinkers from academia further enriched the discourse. Dr. Maharajh, Prof. Neema Abooki from Makerere University (Uganda), and Prof. Salim Vally collectively set the tone for a paradigm shift in the global educational system, aligning seamlessly with the ambitious objectives of Project 26.
A voice that echoes with particular urgency is that of the African Diaspora Forum, shedding light on the plight of refugees and displaced people. Children from economically, security, and environmentally threatened communities emerged as the most vulnerable in their pursuit of education. The social and psychosocial impact on these children calls for immediate and comprehensive responses to pave the way for a more equal and peaceful world.
South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (SADTU) and its collaborators investing substantial energy in mobilizing regional efforts is a source of immense hope for the future. This experience exceeded expectations, leaving an indelible mark as a benchmark for future endeavors. The points articulated in the declaration highlight the vast challenges and untapped areas to explore, propelling us forward in our project to extend human rights to education on a global scale.
As we reflect on this transformative journey, it becomes evident that the collective commitment and collaboration witnessed at the Continental Education Conference serve as a beacon, guiding us toward a future where education is not just a right but a universally accessible reality.
* This article is published simultaneously in Poli-
Teknik Turkish edition, PoliTeknik International
and PoliTeknik Español.