EU and African Union promise to invest in education, research, science, technology and skills

The EU and African Union leaders have pledged to invest in education, research, science, technology and skills development "to drive further scientific discoveries and innovative solutions".

At the seventh African Union - European Union summit in Luanda (Angola) on 24-25/11/2025, the leaders agreed on a joint declaration which tackles education and research topics.

"We highlight the importance of youth as drivers for sustainable development and commit to supporting their empowerment and active participation. We encourage further exchanges of young citizens, volunteers, students and researchers through existing programmes and partnerships between universities and research organisations to foster mutual understanding and excellence."

The text also highlighted the need to expand legal migration pathways and mobility between Africa and Europe, especially for students, academics and skilled workers.

It called for mutual recognition of qualifications and investments in education, skills and socio-economic development to support countries of origin and stressed addressing brain drain through…