Edtech, or education technology, is the practice of introducing information and communication technology tools into the classrooms.
It is the combined use of computer hardware, software, and educational theory and practice to facilitate learning.
EdTech creates more engaging, inclusive and individualized learning experiences.
Until recent years, education has been limited to the physical “board – to- pen and paper” within the physical walls of a school. Then came the internet and technology, revolutionizing the education system globally.
Digital education administration solutions are provided by EdTech Companies. These include cloud-based portals, often known as Virtual classrooms which allow students and systems to easily access learning materials.
Nigeria’s tech ecosystem has produced strong players in the edtech sector. In this piece, we share the inspiring stories behind 5 of the many innovative startups taking over the education sector in Nigeria, or really, Africa.
uLesson
The uLesson Group is a Nigerian edtech company that operates an online education platform.
The company leverages technology to enable students to learn at a convenient pace. Through its Education mobile app, uLesson offers E-learning for primary and secondary schools.
Its simplified teaching methods are designed to carry students along individually and holistically.
Lessons are categorised into Primary, junior secondary and senior secondary for easy assimilation.
uLesson, offers subscriptions-based pre-recorded and live immersive video lessons for elementary and secondary scholars in 8 African countries.
The startup was founded in 2019 by Sim Shagaya (former CEO at Konga.com) and now has ;
- Over 3.5 million downloads with increasing user interest
- 10.6 million lessons attempted matched
- More than 810k live lessons attended and
- more than 3.6 million questions attempted
On 16th of May 2023, uLesson announced that it has secured an online university license for Miva University.
This would enable uLesson to expand its digital learning platform to cater to university degrees in Nigeria.
AltSchool Africa
AltSchool Africa is a digital based learning platform providing an education that equips students with skills.
It is a fully-virtual platform where Africans can access global standard learning resources.
Students on AltSchool Africa obtain their certificates within a year.
To achieve this, AltSchool Africa teaches participants for nine months, followed by a three-month internship.
AltSchool Africa says it offers a more effective “alternative” to traditional academic institutions. It explores and offers practical & functional learning with the aid of modern technology.
AltSchool Africa was founded in 2021 by Adewale Yusuf (CEO), Akintunde Sultan and Opeyemi Awoyemi.
Edukoya
Edukoya is a global education technology company that connects African learners with the world’s best teachers.
On Edukoya, students get real-time learning.
The platform combines a data-enabled question bank, world-class teachers, innovative technology and data science to deliver personalised learning across grades.
The company ‘s mission is to allow every child to reach their full potential. Edukoya believes that education is not one-size-fit all, and that every student is unique.
Honey Ogundeyi , Founder and CEO of Edukoya, launched the platform in beta, in May 2021 and fully launched in April of the same year.
Teesas
Teesas provides a platform where educators and learners engage seamlessly and efficiently, via the deployment of technology and the adoption of local culture and dialects.
The startup provides high quality video tutorials that explain foundational concepts, from Africa’s best teachers . The tutorials are delivered in English and also in major local dialects to deepen understanding.
Their tools include;
- Highly engaging videos and ebooks tailored to National curriculum
- Content is simplified and gamified in short 4 minute videos to enhance engagement
- Entrance Exams Preparation simplified with Teesas Exam Tips and Practice Question
- Delivered in English, Maths , Science and local languager
- Live classes from top quality teachers to strengthen the learning journeyCompanion App for parents to track
The founder and CEO of Teesas is Osayi Izedonmwen and is headquartered in Lekki, Lagos. For more information visit; https://www.teesas.com
LearnAM fka ScholarX
LearnAM, formerly known as ScholarX is a social impact startup that focuses on financing education and educational endeavors.
The company is keen on helping young Africans access quality education and skills training.
They achieve this through Scholarships, Crowdfunding and E-Learning.
The goal is to bridge the education financing gap by connecting youths with funding opportunities both at home and abroad.
LearnAM is out to ensure that Africans can access top-quality education on any level worldwide.
To Leverage new-generation information technology tools that will create a world of possibilities in Africa .
LearnAM is founded by Bola Wahab Lawal, Co-Founder & CEO, Maxwell Ogunfuyi, Co-Founder & CTO and Abayomi Johnson, Co-Founder.
Launched in February 2016, LearnAM is headquartered in Yaba, Lagos and you can find more information at scholarx.co.
