Agricultural Education as a Key Element of Socio-Economic Development in Sub-Saharan African Countries – JOURNAL OF THE INSTITUTE FOR AFRICAN STUDIES

Author:

Gavrilova N.G.

Abstract:

Agriculture in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has historically played a central role in ensuring employment and food security in the region. However, under contemporary conditions, the agricultural sector faces profound contradictions: on the one hand, it remains the economic foundation; on the other, it is losing its workforce due to youth migration to urban areas and the laborers shifting to service sector and the extractive industries. Despite high unemployment rates, young people avoid agriculture, perceiving it as an unprestigious, low-paying, and technologically backward sector. The author argues that resolving this situation requires transforming agricultural education. The article emphasizes that modern agriculture is ceasing to be “traditional” —it now demands specialists with expertise in agronomy, biotechnology, logistics, management, and digital technologies. However, the current agricultural education system in SSA does not meet these challenges. To address these issues, the author proposes reforms to the education system, including shifting curricula toward a practice-oriented approach. An example is the Russian model of continuous agribusiness education, which begins in preschool agricultural clubs and extends to specialized universities. Digitalizing education could make agricultural professions more attractive to youth. Strengthening international cooperation between the SAA countries and the Russian Federation can also help African youth receive appropriate education. The development of agricultural education is one of the key conditions for ensuring sustainable progress in sub-Saharan Africa. Its transformation requires a systematic approach that unites government, business, and international partners.

Keywords:

Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), agricultural education, socio-economic development, food security, sustainable development, sustainable agriculture, unemployment

DOI:

10.31132/2412-5717-2025-71-2-42-57

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For citation:

Gavrilova N.G. Agricultural Education as a Key Element of Socio-Economic Development in Sub-Saharan African Countries. Journal of the Institute for African Studies. 2025. Vol. 11. № 2. Pp. 42–57. https://doi.org/10.31132/2412-5717-2025-71-2-42-57

Для цитирования:

Гаврилова Н.Г. Аграрное образование как важный элемент социально-экономического развития стран Субсахарской Африки. Ученые записки Института Африки РАН. 2025. Т. 11. № 2. С. 42–57. https://doi.org/10.31132/2412-5717-2025-71-2-42-57

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