Minister of Education, Science and Technology Bright Msaka has officially opened the 22nd conference on Mathematics, Science and Technology Education in Africa (COMSTEDA) in Lilongwe, reaffirming the government's commitment to education as a cornerstone for human capital development and economic transformation. 

The annual continental conference serves as a platform for educators, policymakers, researchers and other stakeholders to share innovative ideas, best practices, and research findings in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education across Africa. 

In his opening remarks, Msaka emphasized the need to decolonise STEM education, nothing that such as approach nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and innovation among learners. 

"Education remains the foundation of our country's transformation. Decolonising STEM allows us to build systems that reflect African realities and empower our learners to become innovators, not imitators," said Msaka.

Speaking at the same event, COMSTEDA president Professor Benson Banda commended efforts by African governments to advance STEM education, but urged stakeholder to go further in integrating indigenous knowledge systems with modern technology. 

"The theme challenges us to align our curricula with African realities, integrate indigenous knowledge with modern technology, and empower our youth to innovate solutions for pressing issues like climate, food security, and economic inclusion",said Banda. 

Africa's transformation begins in the classroom and effective teaching requires empathy rather than sympathy from educators," he added. 

The opening ceremony was followed by an exhibition at Nalikule College of Education and Mlodza Secondary School, showcasing innovative STEM projects and educational tools. 

COMSTEDA 22 is being held under the theme; "Reimagining STEM for a Pan-African Future: Bridging Education, Innovation, and Sustainable Development Towards Agenda 2063."

The conference continues to serve as a continental hub for knowledge exchange and collaboration, advancing the African unions vision for a self-reliant, innovative, and sustainably developed continent.