ESSA improves education using evidence and data from Africa in research, advocacy and programme design.

We take a systems approach by identifying challenges and co-designing solutions in partnership with local education researchers, higher education leaders, policymakers, funders and employers to improve education outcomes for young people.

Our research generates actionable insights that inform decisions, policies and practice and strengthen education systems.

Vision

High-quality education in sub-Saharan Africa that enables young people to achieve their ambitions and strengthens society. 

Mission

Our mission starts by working with universities and colleges: using evidence to improve education for young people. 

Where We Work

Our work has relevance across the continent, but we recognise that there is no "one size fits all" approach to development. Therefore, ESSA takes a country-specific emphasis, co-creating and producing relevant, fit-for-purpose, useful, and usable evidence for partners at national and institutional levels. We are currently developing more focused strategies in Kenya and Ghana.

ESSA stands out in three ways

We are committed to Actionable Evidence and Data

Our commitment to education research is at the core of our mission. We collaborate with local education researchers, universities, and partners to understand education matters in Africa, transforming data into actionable insights that drive change. 

We have a deep understanding of African Universities

We have invested time to understand the strengths, challenges, and structures of the universities in Africa. We support policymakers to design and implement reforms that use data to improve the quality of education in universities. 

We promote African Education Researchers and their Research

African-led research represents only 3% of global research output. We strengthen the field of education research in Africa, raising the visibility of researchers and their work and increasing collaboration.