Africa Prepares for Skills Revolution at ISWA 2025 in Lusaka
Africa is gearing up for a continental conversation on industrial transformation through skills development at the inaugural Industrial Skills Week Africa (ISWA) 2025, to be held from 9–10 September at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka.
Hosted by the African Union Development Agency-NEPAD (AUDA-NEPAD) in collaboration with the Government of the Republic of Zambia, ISWA 2025 seeks to mobilize stakeholders across sectors to align technical and vocational education and training (TVET) with Africa’s evolving industrial needs.
With Africa’s workforce expected to surpass 1 billion people by 2035, the need for industry-relevant, future-proof skills has never been greater. Themed “Powering Africa’s Industrial Future: Skills for Innovation, Growth, and Sustainability,” the forum will spotlight skills as a cornerstone for sustainable growth in sectors like manufacturing, green energy, pharmaceuticals, agro-processing, and mining.
“Africa’s industrial ambitions depend on its ability to skill and upskill its youth,” said Ms. Nardos Bekele-Thomas, CEO of AUDA-NEPAD. “ISWA is not just a dialogue, it’s a launchpad for real action and lasting partnerships.”
The event will feature sectoral roundtables, policy discussions, innovation showcases, and site visits, offering a full spectrum of engagement opportunities. Zambia’s Ministry of Technology and Science, through TEVETA, is coordinating efforts with industry, government, and youth to drive demand-driven reforms.
“Zambia is honoured to host this inaugural gathering,” said Hon. Felix Mutati, Minister of Technology and Science. “ISWA is a platform to celebrate our youth, our institutions, and the innovations shaping tomorrow’s industries.”
Organisers are calling on governments, private sector actors, youth networks, regional bodies, and development partners to unite around a common goal: building a resilient, skilled African workforce ready for the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
