The author reviews her experiences and discoveries during an 11-year period of living and working in 22 different African countries. Several statements are presented by the former Ethiopian emperor, Haile Selassie, concerning his attitudes toward education. This is followed by a discussion of the author's work with Ethiopia's educational system, involving research in learning and intelligence testing. The author's involvement in screening applicants for a vocational training school is also described. Interview research in Ghana and the problems encountered there are also discussed. In response to the question of what can be learned from Africa, the author concludes that sensitivity to an adult's sense of personal dignity is vital if adult basic education type programs are to succeed. A summary statement of the author's impressions is that all babies cry in the same language and for the same reasons, regardless of any specific variables. (BW)