Contextual Drivers of Success in Education during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Evidence and Insights from Within and Across 7 Countries in Africa

Abstract

Reflection is a valuable practice that allows intentional assessment and evaluation of situations and practices, while taking stock of lessons learned and identifying areas of improvement, individually or collectively. Similar to other sectors, the education sector was significantly disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The loss of lives, livelihoods, and negative effects on learning cannot be overstated or accurately defined due to the magnitude and unavailable metrics to quantify the loss or impact. Within the backdrop of disruption and loss, it is imperative to highlight and accentuate factors that facilitated continuity of learning, contributed to improvements in education processes and brought out the strength of education systems in countries in Africa.