The Nigerian academic landscape faces a potential strike as the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) demands increased funding from the Federal Government, citing chronic underfunding as the primary cause of the system's decline. In 2022, Nigeria allocated only 5.4% of its budget to tertiary education, one of the lowest rates globally. Meanwhile, in South Africa, Heritage Month is celebrated with cultural showcases, exemplified by artist Emmanuel Okudom, who embodies the rich traditions of the Akan people through his Afro Funk music. On a broader scale, Africa grapples with significant challenges, including a debt crisis that hinders progress in combating climate change, where the continent spends nearly three times more on debt service than it receives in climate finance. Furthermore, Carlos Lopes' book critiques EU-Africa relations, emphasizing the need for Africa to assert its integration goals amid divergent trade negotiations. Lastly, a recent virtual dialogue at the UN Summit of the Future urged African media professionals to create a collaborative network to promote positive African narratives and reduce dependence on Western news outlets.