TechPression

Tag: edtech

  • EdVentures makes six-figure investment in Egyptian edtech startups Schoolz and Ibn Sina

    EdVentures makes six-figure investment in Egyptian edtech startups Schoolz and Ibn Sina

    EdVentures, a prominent venture capital firm in Egypt, has recently made headlines with its latest investments in the EdTech sector. EdVentures invested six figures in Schoolz and Ibn Sina Training Academy on Thursday.

    This move expands its portfolio to include 24 dynamic startups, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing educational opportunities through technology.

    Read also: AltSchool expands into Europe with focus on tech education and global certification

    Empowering education through innovation

    Within the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region , Dalia Ibrahim started EdVentures in 2017 with the goal of changing the way education works in Egypt and the wider region.

    The organisation specialises in nurturing startups that leverage technology to enhance learning experiences. Ibrahim was enthusiastic about the new investments, stating, “We are thrilled to support innovative solutions that address the pressing challenges in education today”.

    The EDVS (EdTech Ventures Studio) program under which these investments were made is designed to provide startups with mentorship, funding, and access to a network of industry experts. 

    This program, which is collaborative with the Challenge Fund for Youth Employment (CFYE), is focused on fostering growth within the EdTech sector.

     “Our goal is to create over 1,000 jobs through this initiative,” Ibrahim added, highlighting the program’s dual focus on economic growth and educational innovation.

    Read also: EdTech leaders advocate for broader inclusivity in education at Tech In Ghana 2024

    The startups making waves

    Schoolz is a unique platform that offers students a specialised transportation system, ensuring safe and convenient commutes. 

    Meanwhile, Ibn Sina Training Academy focuses on providing vocational training and skill development tailored to meet the needs of today’s job market. Both startups were selected from a competitive pool of ten finalists during the inaugural EDVS boot camp.

    EdVentures’ commitment to supporting these startups reflects its mission to improve educational quality and accessibility across Egypt. 

    The organisation has previously invested in various innovative platforms that aim to revolutionise traditional education methods through technology.

     Ibrahim noted, “By empowering innovative startups, we are not just investing in businesses; we are investing in the future of education”.

    EdVentures’ commitment to creating a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem that can adapt to education’s changing needs is shown by these investments. Ongoing initiatives by EdVentures shape an inclusive and effective educational environment for Egyptian students.

  • AltSchool expands into Europe with focus on tech education and global certification

    AltSchool expands into Europe with focus on tech education and global certification

    AltSchool, an innovative edtech startup, has officially expanded into Europe. It announced this significant milestone on Monday during the SuperCharger Demo Day. 

    Founded to democratise education, AltSchool aims to create accessible pathways for individuals to transform their lives and help businesses build necessary talent. 

    CEO Adewale Yusuf emphasised, “At AltSchool, we believe that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not.” He stated, “Our mission is to bridge the gap between potential and opportunity, ensuring every learner can thrive in a rapidly changing world.”

    Read also: NITDA, Japanese agency launch iHatch Cohort 4 to empower 185 startups

    AltSchool picks Malta as European hub

    With a presence in over seven African countries, AltSchool’s European operations will adopt a hybrid learning model, with Malta serving as a strategic base for in-person engagements. 

    Yusuf explained, “We recognise that different regions have unique needs. Our hybrid model allows us to effectively tailor our approach to meet those needs.” 

    Initial programs will focus on high-demand fields such as cloud engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and data science. 

    This shift from a primarily online model in Africa reflects the startup’s commitment to adapting its educational offerings to meet regional workforce challenges.

    AltSchool has already gained traction in Europe, ranking third in registered users in the UK, following Nigeria and Kenya. Since its inception in 2021, the startup has enrolled over 100,000 students across various programs. 

    Yusuf noted, “The response from European students has been overwhelmingly positive. It shows that our approach resonates with learners eager to gain skills that matter.” 

    The startup also explores business-to-business (B2B) models to strengthen its revenue streams.

    Read also: Fako Capital to invest €500,000 in high-impact SMEs across Cameroon, Central Africa

    AltSchool: More than just skills

    A key aspect of AltSchool’s mission is not just providing skills but also offering recognised certifications. The startup received full accreditation from the Accreditation Service for International Schools, Colleges and Universities (ASIC) in February 2024 and is pursuing similar accreditation in Malta. 

    Yusuf remarked, “Accreditation is crucial for us. It validates the quality of our programs and ensures that our graduates are recognised by employers worldwide.” 

    Although AltSchool does not guarantee jobs for graduates, Yusuf noted that the career team is actively working on initiatives to enhance job placement opportunities post-graduation.

    He stated, “We are dedicated to supporting our students even after they complete their courses. We aim to connect them with opportunities that align with their skills.”

    This expansion into Europe marks a significant step for AltSchool, which seeks to redefine tech education and workforce development globally. 

    By leveraging resources from the SuperCharger Ventures accelerator program, which provides mentorship and access to a network of partners, AltSchool aims to maximise its impact in the European market. 

    Yusuf concluded, “This is just the beginning for us. We are excited about what lies ahead and are committed to making a difference in the lives of learners across Europe.”

  • EdTech leaders advocate for broader inclusivity in education at Tech In Ghana 2024

    EdTech leaders advocate for broader inclusivity in education at Tech In Ghana 2024

    The 14th edition of Tech In Ghana held on November 26 and 27, 2024, brought together tech enthusiasts, educators, and thought leaders to explore how technology can reshape education for all learners, regardless of background. The event was an inspiring platform for engaging discussions on how technology, especially EdTech, can break barriers and promote inclusive education across the country.

    A standout session during the event was the panel discussion titled “Innovative EdTech for Inclusive Education: Overcoming Barriers to Learning for Diverse Needs,” which offered valuable insights into the expanding role of digital platforms in creating equitable learning opportunities.

    Read also: Lagos govt deploys technology to gauge building strength and safety averting collapse risks

    A Broader Understanding of Education Inclusion

    Among the distinguished speakers, Nana Darko Asiedu, Country Manager for ALX Ghana, stood out by challenging traditional views on educational inclusion. He expanded the conversation beyond underserved communities to include students in urban settings who benefit from EdTech platforms.

    “I think the whole EdTech ecosystem in Ghana shouldn’t just think about those in underserved communities,” Nana Darko emphasized. “The student in Accra you’ll classify as attending a ‘grade A school’ is also benefiting from being inclusive by enrolling into Ed-tech courses like Udemy or Coursera.”

    His remarks shed light on the diverse nature of educational inclusion, suggesting that students in more affluent areas also benefit from EdTech by gaining access to global opportunities through online platforms. Many students, regardless of their geographical location, are now enrolling in prestigious online courses, such as those offered by Stanford University, and earning certifications that unlock employment opportunities worldwide.

    Read also: Africa Tech Festival 2024: South Africa unveils AI institute to lead digital transformation

    The Future of EdTech in Ghana: Partnerships and Policies

    Nana Darko’s vision for a thriving EdTech ecosystem in Ghana goes beyond expanding access; it includes fostering collaboration between key stakeholders. He called on the government and tech companies to work together to build the necessary infrastructure and policies to support the growth of the EdTech sector.

    “The biggest driver of resources and transformational change is the government,” Nana Darko said. “We need policies that actively support EdTech initiatives and encourage private sector involvement.”

    His call for government intervention in shaping policies that foster the growth of EdTech resonates with the ongoing need for a collective effort to ensure that technology-driven education reaches every learner in Ghana, regardless of their background.

    Tech In Ghana 2024 highlighted the expanding impact of EdTech on education, providing a vital space for thought-provoking discussions on how technology can serve as a bridge to a more inclusive, diverse, and accessible education system. The event underscored the importance of broadening the conversation on inclusivity, ensuring that all learners, whether in underserved or urban communities, can access the tools to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

  • Don’t miss out: Apply for the 2025 Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship

    Don’t miss out: Apply for the 2025 Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship

    Injini, a South African ed-tech incubator, and the Mastercard Foundation opened applications for the 2025 EdTech Fellowship on November 11, 2024. This fellowship aims to support startups in South Africa focused on enhancing education through innovative solutions.

    Fellowship benefits

    The recently announced EdTech Fellowship provides participating startups with a comprehensive support package that includes direct grant funding, product evaluation, tailored market research, skills development, mentorship, and opportunities for market access. Following the successful selection of a second cohort in April, applications are now open for the third cohort.

    Read also: Mastercard EdTech Fellowship applications opens

    The fellowship aims to empower startups by equipping them with essential resources and guidance to scale their innovative educational solutions. Ultimately, this will contribute to improved education in South Africa and beyond. Interested persons  are encouraged to submit applications before midnight December 8, 2024.

     About Injini

    Established in 2017, Injini is Africa’s first and only specialised ed-tech accelerator and think tank, headquartered in Cape Town, South Africa. Its mission is to enhance educational outcomes across sub-Saharan Africa by supporting key stakeholders in improving the quality, accessibility, and relevance of education.

    As a registered non-profit organisation, Injini focuses on nurturing innovative solutions that address pressing educational challenges.

    Read also: Insights from the Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship

    Over the years, Injini has accelerated over 40 ed-tech startups across the continent, fostering a vibrant community of innovators. Its partnerships, notably with the Mastercard Foundation for the EdTech Fellowship Program, aim to drive significant improvements in educational technology solutions. Injini’s Think Tank comprises experienced education sector experts who effectively guide startups in executing their innovative ideas.

    Through various programs, including intensive acceleration support and market access initiatives, Injini empowers startups to develop evidence-based solutions that ultimately enhance learning experiences for millions of learners across Africa.

  • Nigerian Edtech startups secure $100,000 in funding rounds

    Nigerian Edtech startups secure $100,000 in funding rounds

    The COVID-19 pandemic worsened the rates of education dropout in Sub-Saharan Africa. Nonetheless, this has caused a rise in the adoption of EdTech, increasing the sector’s worth to $106.46 billion by 2021. By 2026, the industry is expected to have grown to $457.8 billion, growing at a 9.1% annual rate. 

    Nigeria’s online education market is anticipated to grow to $107.90 million by the end of 2024, presenting a sizable opportunity for private investment. 

    Read also: Madica backs three promising startups with $200,000 each

    Bridging the Urban-Rural Education Divide

    Unfortunately, there are significant gaps in the quality of education across the nation, especially between rural and urban regions. While rural schools fall behind, schools in cities are better equipped with resources, highly qualified teachers, and excellent facilities. 

    The education system’s capacity to fulfil the demands of its expanding population is hampered by several issues, which are made worse by inadequate funding and resource mismanagement.

    Leaders driving education innovation 

    Despite financial difficulties, several EdTech businesses have persisted in their efforts to close the education gap and reach those in need. Some have successfully obtained sizeable investments totalling over $100,000, demonstrating investor faith in the industry’s future.

    Ojiugo Uche, CEO of Genti Media, has a diverse consulting, research, education, and human rights background. She founded Genti Media in 2021, an audio platform offering African content in various languages, with $230,000 in seed funding. Ugochukwu Nkwocha, CEO of 9jacodekids, has an Electrical Engineering and Computer Network Administration background. He founded 9jacodekids in 2016, a leading STEM education institute offering coding and robotics programs for kids aged 4-16, with over 5,000 students instructed. In 2022, it received $350,000 in seed funding.

    Utiva, a tech-driven virtual environment launched in 2018 that allows people to gain advanced computer skills and transition into new tech occupations, is led by CEO Eyitayo Ogunmola. To expand FLiT and make it a Pan-African digital apprenticeship programme for youth in Africa, Utiva obtained $500,000 in funding. The CEO and co-founder of the 2016 education technology business EDVES is Dimeji Falana. To date, EDVES has raised $766,500 in startup investment.

    Semicolon Africa is a tech-enabled educational firm headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria. Sam Emmanuel is the CEO of the company. From August 2016 until September 2018, Emmanuel worked as a Client Partner at Teradata in the Greater Detroit Area before joining Semicolon Africa. He was employed at SAP in the EMEA area as a Sales Manager from January 2014 until December 2015.

    Nathan Nwachukwu is the CEO of Klas, an Edtech startup founded in 2022. Nwachuku obtained a high school diploma from Graceland International School in Port Harcourt. 

    Read also: Oriki Energy empowers Nigerian startups through Solar Initiative

    Klas is a platform that enables users to create and sell ebooks, courses, and live classes, and it received 1.36 million dollars in the preseed funding round.

    The CEO and creator of uLesson Education Limited, an app designed to provide education to students throughout Africa, is Sim Shagaya. He was instrumental in transforming the digital environment of West Africa as the creator and former CEO of Konga.com, one of the leading e-commerce platforms in the region. He also founded E-Motion Advertising, a well-known out-of-home advertising business that attracted industry notice.

    His strategic vision and entrepreneurial skills successfully enabled Loadstad Media to acquire E-Motion Advertising in 2019. Students can purchase digital curricula from Lesson via SD cards. In a financing round, it has raised $25.6 million in total. It got a $15 million Series-B investment in December 2021 from Tencent, Nielsen Ventures, and its current backers.

    This is the most significant investment made in an Edtech business in Africa. It has raised $7.5 million in Series A funding earlier in January 2021. Owl Ventures led the round, and TLcom Capital led a $3.1 million seed round for uLesson in 2019.

  • Mastercard EdTech Fellowship applications opens

    Mastercard EdTech Fellowship applications opens

    For the second year running, the Ed-Tech Fellowship Programme in Nigeria, co-hosted by Co-Creation Hub (ccHub) and the Mastercard Foundation, is accepting applications.

    A US$15 million ed-tech accelerator initiative will be launched in Kenya and Nigeria by CcHub and the Mastercard Foundation in February 2023 as part of the Mastercard Foundation Ed-Tech Fellowship Programme.

    In 2023, 12 startups from Nigeria and 12 from Kenya received initial support from the fellowship. Over the next two years, the support will be extended to 36 ed-tech companies. 

    Read also: Mastercard, illicocash to launch virtual card program in DRC

    Currently in its second year, the fellowship is seeking innovative ideas from startups in Nigeria that have ed-tech solutions that could revolutionise learning across all levels, from preschool to the classroom.

    Startups based in Nigeria must prioritise serving the African market. Problems in elementary, secondary, informal, and tertiary education, as well as in corporate learning and vocational skill training, should be addressed by their solutions.

    Fellows in the 2024 class who participate in the accelerator program will have access to a network of investors, coaching and mentorship from industry experts, and chances to network. They will also be able to raise $100,000 without having to give any equity.

    Participants in the accelerator program from the 2024 cohort of Fellows will be eligible to receive:

    Advisory services are provided by experts in the fields of learning science, product development, sales and marketing, and talent management.

    Guidance and instruction from prosperous entrepreneurs and industry leaders.

    Networking opportunities.

    Opportunity to connect with a group of generous investors. 

    $50,000 in funding that does not require any equity.

    Application is open until February 17th.

    Mastercard completes technology infrastructure in South Africa

    The purpose of the fellowship

    The fellowship was established by the Mastercard Foundation’s Centre for Innovative Teaching and Learning with the aim of supporting the development of a groundbreaking education technology ecosystem in Africa. For the benefit of students, teachers, and EdTech pioneers all over the continent, we aim to promote creativity and effective methods of integrating technology into the educational process. 

    To guarantee a diverse range of solutions addressing key issues in the EdTech space, the selection process for the cohort was carefully designed. Digital content, learning management systems, workforce development, online learning resources, tutoring, and support for STEAM education are just a few of the many topics covered by the 12 selected startups.

    Throughout the hiring process, CcHUB and the Mastercard Foundation worked to increase gender parity and promote inclusion. Out of the twelve companies chosen, nine had female founders or senior executives as a result of this concerted effort. 

    To help them grow their businesses and make a bigger splash in Nigeria and beyond, the selected startups will get seed money and access to expert advisors. Starting today in Lagos, the program will consist of a six-month accelerator phase run by the CcHUB team and a further twelve months of advisory support.

    In order to help African EdTech companies tackle problems in K-12, higher education, and vocational training, the Mastercard Foundation has established the EdTech Fellowship Program, which includes this collaboration. 

    The program is hopeful that these solutions will help address some of the most persistent problems in African education, including low enrollment, poor quality, and a lack of accessible, high-quality educational opportunities for the continent’s youth.

  • Bahraini startup, Unipal secures $500,000 for Saudi expansion

    Bahraini startup, Unipal secures $500,000 for Saudi expansion

    Unipal, a Bahraini edtech company, raised $500,000 GTS Alive, a European student platform, and other Angel investors joined Flat6labs and Tenmou, which increased their initial funding.

    The business hopes to expand to Saudi Arabia with the latest cash. Since 2020, Unipal has recruited 74% of Bahraini students.

    Ali Alalawi, Unipal’s CEO and co-founder, said, “This funding round is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s growth potential. We’re delighted to grow in Riyadh, across the country, and beyond. We’re convinced we can produce something remarkable that will benefit regional businesses and students.”

    The firm anticipates its next investment round in early 2024 to continue its regional expansion. Unipal might become the largest student platform in the Middle East and worldwide with investor support.

     Read also: KASO secures $10.5 Million, launches FB Fintech Vertical

    About Unipal

    Ali Alalawi and Ali Al Shaer started Unipal. It is an online learning platform that gives university students special services and discounts on a wide range of goods. Students can use it to look for colleges and grants and apply to them. Unipal’s success in Bahrain can be traced back to its cutting-edge technology, which gives businesses direct access to students and lets them offer deals to students through the App. The app also lets vendors change their profiles, look at their transactions, and check the state of their students in real time.

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    Edtech in Bahrain

    Education technology, or edtech, has become an important way to teach and learn all over the world. But the edtech trend around the world has been a bit uneven in some less-developed countries. It is hard to put into action because there isn’t enough equipment and money.

    Still, the rise in investments in edtech over time shows that edtech has a lot of promise to improve the quality of education around the world in a number of ways.

    Reports say that by 2027, the Middle East and Africa (MEA) edtech and smart classroom market will be worth $7 billion, thanks to the use of edtech-based goods and services.

     Even though Bahrain isn’t one of the best places in the area for edtech, it has a lot of edtech startups. Some of these apps are Lumofy, Raed App, Clever Play, and Darseni DanOwa Edutech.

  • Injini selects 12 SA edtechs for Mastercard Foundation Fellowship

    Injini selects 12 SA edtechs for Mastercard Foundation Fellowship

    The South African ed-tech incubator Injini has revealed the 12 companies that have been chosen to participate in the first Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship Programme. This scheme gives chosen firms access to funds as well as numerous types of assistance.

    The aim of Injini’s Programme

    The fellowship programme will provide qualified startups with direct grant funding, product quality evaluation and certification, intensive skills development, coaching and mentorship, bespoke market research, and market access through Injini’s network of stakeholders across the education innovation landscape. 

    Krista Davidson, executive director of Injini said previously when applications were open, “We recognise the need for collaboration when tackling the challenges associated with the state of education across the region, so we’re delighted to partner with the Mastercard Foundation on this exciting new program.”

    Read also: Dream VC announces third Talent Accelerator Programme

    “Through Injini’s edition of this program, we intend to bolster the South African ed-tech ecosystem with additional resources, bring awareness to key stakeholders in the education innovation landscape and ultimately reach more learners and teachers with effective learning and teaching support,” she added.

    Davidson stated that throughout the screening process for the Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship Programme, the company encountered a number of applicants that showed great promise. 

    “We saw many promising applicants during the selection process for our Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship Program.”

    “It was not easy to narrow down the applicants from hundreds to these 12 fellows, as many impressive ed-tech solutions are operating and making a real difference to learners across the country. We are confident that we will be able to work with each one individually to grow their impact and improve educational outcomes in South Africa,” the executive director added.

    There will be a total of twelve companies participating in the first iteration of this scheme. These companies are: Afrika Tikkun Bambanani, Ambani Africa, BuzzKidz Buzz-in-a-Box, Click Learning, Code4Kids, Digify Africa, FunDza Literacy Trust, Matric Live, Resolute Education, Yenza, and Zaio.

    About Injini 

    Injini is a recognised non-profit organisation that was established in 2017 and is a member of the UVU Africa Group. Its main mission is to enhance the educational opportunities available to people living in Sub-Saharan Africa. 

    Injini is the first accelerator in Africa that is specifically focused on ed-tech, and its programmes and research, which are conducted by the Injini Think Tank, contribute to its aim to improve the quality of education in the region as well as expand its accessibility and relevance.

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    About the Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship 

    The Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship is an initiative of the Mastercard Foundation Centre for Innovative Teaching and Learning (CITL), which collaborates with technology and innovation hubs and EdTech accelerators across Africa to assist promising, growth-stage EdTech ventures with an opportunity for scale and impact. 

    Established in 2019, the Fellowship facilitated 12 African EdTech companies from 7 countries in its first year. Collectively, these companies have reached over 800,000 learners.

  • Flat6Labs funds African tech startups with $95 million

    Flat6Labs funds African tech startups with $95 million

    The African Seed Fund, a new $95 million seed fund for the African tech startup ecosystem, has been created by Flat6Labs, the top seed investor in MENA (ASF). This fund is intended to support early-stage ICT firms in Africa as they grow and flourish.

    The Africa Seed Fund (ASF) will prioritize investing in the northern, western, and eastern regions of the continent. Ramez El-Serafy and Dina El-Shenoufy, the general partners, will be in charge of it.

    Ramez El-Serafy stated, “We are pleased about the Africa Seed Fund.” Technology and innovation investments are lucrative in Africa. Business opportunities exist on the continent. Our experience will help African startup owners build successful companies that can attract outside financing.

    Flat6Labs plans to invest US$150K to US$500K in 160 early-stage tech startups (Pre-Seed to Pre-Series A) through the Africa Seed Fund over the next five years. The Flat6Labs Africa Seed Program will give experienced businesses seed tickets separately.

    However, these startups must be concentrated on having an impact that quickens digital inclusion through the use of information technologies and sectors that solve social and environmental issues, such as HealthTech, FinTech, EdTech, GreenTech, AgriTech, ClimateTech, and others.

    Read also: Lagos-based EchoVC launches $8 million “pilot” blockchain seed fund

    About Flat6Labs

    Flat6Labs, a company founded more than a decade ago, has made major investments in companies with a focus on technology. Nowadays, it exists in Egypt, Lebanon, Tunisia, Bahrain, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia, which is a total of seven nations. It supports entrepreneurs in their early stages, from Pre-Seed to Pre-Series A, with a range of investment ticket sizes between US$50K and US$500K.

    Flat6Labs has a proven track record of investing in potential North African entrepreneurs across the whole African continent, having invested more than $16 million in firms and raising more than $191 million in follow-on funding. As a result of its first two rounds of funding, over 2,500 direct jobs and 80,000 indirect jobs have been created in Egypt and Tunisia.

    Additionally.  Flat6Labs is planning a global rollout that will take the company to countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, and Senegal.

    African Seed Fund Program

    The Africa Seed Fund (ASF) is an initiative launched by Flat6Labs with the backing of the GIZ on behalf of the German Government, the Egyptian Agricultural Innovation Project (AIP), and the Scaling Digital Agricultural Innovations through Startups project (SAIS).

    It is projected that with the significant influx of funds from the ASF, more than 14,000 new jobs will be created, more than 1,200 founders with 20% female participation will receive support, and more than $700 million in income might be produced.

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    African Seed Fund Program operations

    The program helps entrepreneurs grow their enterprises. Seed investment, local business support, seasoned local mentors, and regulatory and logistical support will help selected startups scale. ASF can reinvest in portfolio firms in later rounds.

    “The Africa Seed Fund is well-positioned to be a catalyst for generating long-term good change that the youth of Africa actually deserve and for giving resources to the brightest of them while speeding the future of the African continent,” says General Partner Dina el-Shenoufy.

    With a hybrid methodology that blends virtual cohort connections across the fund region with real on-the-ground interactions in local marketplaces, the program adapts to be regional.

    Before the end of 2023, the startups chosen for the initial investments will be disclosed. There will be two cohorts per year, each consisting of 10 to 15 startups.

  • FoondaMate Expands To Nigeria To Promote Online Learning

    FoondaMate Expands To Nigeria To Promote Online Learning

    Through low-data instant messaging services like Whatsapp and Facebook, students can access online learning resources in a variety of languages due to the South African edtech company, FoondaMate. As a result, Nigerian students can get access to locally relevant study materials, including old WAEC junior and senior exam papers.

    Like speaking with a friend, the FoondaMate chatbot functions similarly. To start a chat, you only need to message a Whatsapp number or Facebook page. When you send a message to FoondaMate using this means with your question, it will search the internet for pertinent information, summarize it, and reply to you.

    A user may, for instance, ask, “What is democracy?” and receive a response in the chat. The user can access past question papers when preparing for particular exams, such as “WAEC Civic Education 2017”. The user can then download or share a pdf version of the requested past exam from the bot’s response in the chat.

    It can also serve as a study partner for math classes because students can send equations to the FoondaMate chatbot and ask for the answer. After conducting a web search, the chatbot responds with a document that details a step-by-step approach to solving the mathematical problem.

    Read also: VerifyMe debuts QoreID in Ghana

    Apart from getting only past questions, students can seek study materials and learning resources for challenging courses, as well as the definitions of difficult words they come across. Students don’t need to leave WhatsApp to complete their studies because everything takes place in the chat. Isn’t that great?

    FoondaMate is available for both WhatsApp and Facebook users; however, the WhatsApp version is commonly used because it only requires your phone number, while the Facebook profile requires your username and password.

    How FoondaMate Came Into Existence

    To solve the disparities in the South African educational system, Tao Boyle and Dacod Magagula developed the API-based solution over two years ago. Dacod Magagula, while younger, studied in a public school with a very poor curriculum and little access to physical or virtual learning tools, which drove him to develop FoondaMate.

    This provided him with first-hand knowledge of the issue he was attempting to solve. Boyle, his co-founder, went to a private school and, as a result of her wealthier background, had a quite different educational experience. These two had contrasting backgrounds.

    However, she did spend most of her time in college working for a group that provided low-income neighbourhoods with textbooks. Their strong conviction that everyone should have access to high-quality education and their drive to make sure that children from low-income families are not denied is what bring them together, leading to their work at Foondamate.

    FoondaMate, unlike the majority of educational technology solutions on the continent, is a chatbot on Facebook and WhatsApp, two of the most widely used instant messaging platforms. Without leaving the messaging app, students may communicate with the bot to obtain help with their homework or to prepare for tests. For those who cannot afford access to the larger internet, it is the ideal solution.

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    Progress Recorded So Far

    Over 130,000 students in Africa, Latin America, and Asia have downloaded more than 1.8 million practice questions from FoondaMate. In Nigeria alone, over 4,000 users have registered with the bot on the Whatsapp platform in the roughly three weeks it has been operational in Nigeria.

    Boyle, a female co-founder of FoondaMate, responded to a question regarding the company’s aspirations in the nation. Boyle, FoondaMate’s female co-founder, says, “Nigeria is a huge and young market, so there is great potential for helping people move from where they are to that next step, whatever that next step is for them.

    Being able to help somebody get to that next step is something that we care about and something that we are excitedly looking forward to doing in the country.”

    Concerning the feedback they have received from Nigerian users, FoondaMate is very excited about the acceptance. “Nigerian students don’t hold back. They tell you exactly what they think as soon as they see it.  At first, we thought it would be difficult to get feedback, but it’s been completely the opposite,” Boyle said.  “Students sign up, and on the same day, they email us telling us how much they love the product and recommending other things they would like to see on the platform.”

    The company is taking into account all of the feedback it is getting and will use it to keep improving the solution to satisfy the requirements of Nigerian students at their various stages of education.

    Collaborations with financial institutions and post-secondary educational institutions help FoondaMate make money as well. By collaborating with these financial institutions, organizations can promote their partners’ relevant product offers while delivering users sponsored financial literacy to users.