Years ago we had no way of knowing the speed with which the world would evolve or the degree to which, with the advent of globalization, peoples, cultures, and economies around the world would become so intricately interconnected. Many of our modern leaders were not groomed to be global ambassadors and citizens of the world. Imagine how different the United States, Africa, or the world would be if our current policymakers, administrators, and legislators had the benefit of an experience like Teach Africa™. What might the world be like? How would their decisions and policies be different if they had received a substantive and balanced education with respect to Africa? What partnerships might have been forged, relationships cultivated, conflicts averted, lives improved? We may never know. But it’s not too late to find out.
There is a fundamental link between strategic educational capacity and national power. In a nation where, according to the National Center for Public Policy and Higher Education, the percentage of workers with high school diplomas or college degrees, per capita income, and revenue from income tax are all projected to decline over the next 15 years, it is imperative that we improve and expand upon the current educational system in place. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said "When it comes to education, we shouldn't be playing catch-up with the world -- we should be leading it. Because the skills and knowledge of our workforce will determine whether America can compete and win in the global economy." In this regard we, as Americans are both personally and collectively responsible for defending our country against the looming ramifications of such a decline.
Rosa Whitaker, President and CEO of the Whitaker Group pointed out at a June 23 fundraiser for Congressman Donald M. Payne, Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health, that educational initiatives such as Teach Africa™ are not only educational, they are an integral form of international development. By educating students about Africa, we are not merely compensating for a gaping void in American curricula or exploring American history through its many links to Africa, we are cultivating the next generation of global leaders: arming them with knowledge, materials, the propensity for tolerance and understanding, and hopefully some perspective as to their place in the global community. What is your place in the global community? And how can you Teach Africa™ in order to strengthen America?
