Dyslexia Alliance Africa Dialogue 2026 | Understanding Learning Difficulties, Supporting Learners

Across Africa, millions of children attend school, yet many continue to struggle with reading, writing and mathematics. While conversations about Africa's learning crisis often focus on access to education, teacher preparation and resources, an equally important question deserves attention: Are we adequately understanding the individual learners behind the learning challenges? On 15 October 2026, Dyslexia Alliance Africa (DAA) hosted its inaugural continental Dialogue, bringing together researchers, educators, specialists and advocates to explore dyslexia, related learning differences and the practical steps needed to strengthen inclusive education across Africa. Under the theme “Understanding Learning Difficulties, Supporting Learners, Unlocking Potential,” the Dialogue examined the relationship between dyslexia and Africa's foundational learning crisis, the complexities of literacy development in multilingual environments, co-occurring learning conditions, and evidence-based approaches to teaching and intervention. Featured Speakers and Presentations Prof. Anniah Mupawose, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa — The Missing Link in Africa's Learning Crisis Dr. Abebayehu M. Mekonnen — Language, Dyslexia and Literacy in Multilingual Africa Annelize Clark Hendry, Bellavista SHARE, South Africa — Beyond the Letters: Understanding Dyslexia and Co-Occurring Conditions Lola Aneke — Evidence-Based Strategies for Teaching Reading, Writing and Mathematics Clarice L. Jackson, Black Literacy Matters — Reclaiming the Literacy Path: From Recognition to Action for Every Child Moderator: Blessing Ingyape Throughout the discussions, speakers highlighted the importance of recognising learner variability, strengthening early identification, equipping teachers with effective instructional approaches, and developing solutions that reflect Africa's diverse languages, cultures and education systems. This recording is a valuable resource for teachers, school leaders, researchers, education policymakers, parents, disability inclusion advocates and anyone committed to ensuring that children with dyslexia and related learning differences receive the understanding and support they need to thrive. About Dyslexia Alliance Africa Dyslexia Alliance Africa is a continental, membership-based nonprofit professional association dedicated to advancing awareness, research, professional development, collaboration and advocacy for individuals with dyslexia and related learning differences across Africa. We believe that meaningful progress requires African-led conversations, stronger partnerships and practical action that responds to the realities of learners across the continent. Connect With Us Website: https://dyslexiaallianceafrica.org Email: info@dyslexiaallianceafrica.org If you found this discussion valuable, please share the recording with educators, parents, researchers and others working to advance inclusive education across Africa. Subscribe to our channel for future Dialogues, expert discussions and professional learning opportunities. #DyslexiaAllianceAfrica #DyslexiaAwareness #InclusiveEducation #Literacy #LearningDifferences