Burundi to host AU's 2nd Pan‑African Conference on Girls' and Women’s Education

Burundi will host the African Union's second Pan‑African Conference on the education of girls and women from 2‑4 July 2026 in Bujumbura. The event, announced by Education Minister François Havyarimana and AU Education Commissioner Gaspard Banyankimbona, will bring together high‑level officials, experts and development partners from about 40 AU member states to review progress since the first conference and set new commitments for inclusive, quality education.

The Burundian government highlighted a newly adopted law strengthening penalties for violence and sexual harassment in schools, as well as budget provisions to restore university catering services. The Democratic Republic of Congo will be represented by Vice‑Minister of Education Théodore Kazadi, underscoring the theme “Prioritise girls’ and women’s education: develop skills and accelerate learning opportunities”. The conference aims to promote best practices, evaluate state commitments and mobilise communities to reduce barriers to girls’ schooling across Africa.