Title: Reimagining Education to Foster Human Capabilities Development in Sub-Saharan Africa
Stream: Humanities - Knowledge
Presentation Type: Oral Presentation
Authors:
Martha Matashu, North-West University, South Africa
Abstract:
This paper explores a transformative educational framework aimed at advancing human capital development, specifically within Sub-Saharan Africa's socio-economic landscape. As longstanding challenges in the region intensify, it is imperative to reconceptualise education to enhance individuals' capabilities and substantive freedoms, thus enabling them to realise their full potential and pursue lives they value. Utilising the Capabilities Approach articulated by Amartya Sen, this study emphasises the interplay between individual and contextual factors in the conversion of resources into meaningful capabilities. The approach underscores the inherent risks of perpetuating inequality and the need for social justice, revealing how disparities in capability development contribute to systemic injustices. Central to this discourse is the necessity of reconceptualising education to cultivate human capabilities that support sustainable development trajectories in Sub-Saharan Africa. The paper synthesises theoretical frameworks bridging human capability and education for sustainable development, identifying constructs such as autonomy, agency, and substantive freedom as pivotal for fostering life-long success, which is critical for building sustainable futures. The conceptual analysis demonstrates that the Capabilities Approach can empower learners, fostering agency in decision-making processes that support sustainable development initiatives across the region. Subsequently, the capability approach serves as a model that transcends beyond equitable access to quality education, towards embedding equity in the development of human capabilities through education. The paper recommends a reimagining of education to enable individuals to cultivate their capabilities, thereby unlocking their abilities to contribute toward sustainable societal advancements.
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