By Modupe Gbadeyanka
A mobile learning platform called LearnAM has been launched by an edtech start-up, ScholarX Technologies Limited, in collaboration with a leading telecommunications services provider, Airtel Nigeria.
LearnAM provides users with the skills training content to improve learning outcomes.
“LearnAM provides audio and visual content to improve digital and vocational skills of Africans so they can access decent work.
“It employs a 360 approach as it provides learning opportunities, assessment to measure competency and a marketplace that connects users to jobs, customers and apprenticeships,” the co-founder and CEO of ScholarX, Mr Bola Lawal, explained.
It was gathered that strategic partnership between the two organisations allows ScholarX to receive major support from the GSMA Innovation Fund for Mobile Internet Adoption and Digital Inclusion while leveraging on the expansive retail and digital footprints of Airtel Nigeria to deliver its skill acquisition content.
The grant received from the GSMA Innovation Fund for Internet Adoption and Digital Inclusion will help fund key components in the initial phase of the project including Platform Development, Content Development & Sourcing, and Early User Adoption.
“Through the GSMA fund, we are now able to embark on our quest to connect millions of unconnected people in Africa to the Internet and help them get trained in valuable skills for the new digital economy,” Mr Lawal further explained.
“We are committed to building a more skilled workforce focusing on young people, and not-so-young adult population who are looking to upskill or simply improve their standard of living,” he said.
Commenting on the partnership, the Chief Commercial Officer of Airtel Nigeria, Mr Dinesh Balsingh, said Airtel is pleased to partner with ScholarX, the GSMA Innovation Fund Grantee, in creating platforms and opportunities that will empower and equip young Nigerians with the skills they require to become more successful in their personal and professional endeavours.
“At Airtel, we are passionate about improving the quality of education and also helping Nigerians to gain the required skills they need to become self-sufficient and also to realize their dreams. We will continue to explore innovative partnerships that will transform lives and help more people to become successful,” he added.
The initial version of LearnAM app has been developed on KaiOS and it will be available on affordable smart-feature phones and with content in local dialects such as Pidgin English, Yoruba, Igbo and Hausa.
A key feature of LearnAM is a Device Financing Program that enables individuals and members of Cooperative societies to procure a device preloaded with the LearnAM app bundled with services from strategic partners in instalment after an initial deposit. Details of this program is currently being finalized with the Financing and Agent Network Partners.
While the prototype of the LearnAM KaiOS app is now available on the KaiOS app store, the official launch of the platform will be in June 2021.
Dipo Olowookere