Joseph Nsengimana
At a media roundtable event on June 21, 2024, the Mastercard Foundation emphasised its unwavering commitment to the growth and development of EdTech companies across Africa. In his keynote address, Director of the Centre for Innovative Teaching and Learning (CITL), Mastercard Foundation, Joseph Nsengimana, outlined the Foundation’s strategic approach to supporting African EdTech ventures beyond initial funding phases, ensuring they can achieve sustained growth and increased impact.
Nsengimana highlighted the Foundation’s partnerships with tech hubs across the continent, which are designed to identify and nurture high-potential EdTech solutions.
“Our goal is to create a robust ecosystem where EdTech companies can thrive, reach more learners, and significantly enhance educational outcomes,” he stated.
The event also featured a panel, which included Nissi Madu, Managing Partner at the Co-creation Hub Limited in Nigeria, Solomon Twum, EdTech Advisor, Reach for Change in Ethiopia, and Jumanne Mtambalike, CEO of Sahara Consult in Tanzania.
They stressed the importance of collaborative efforts within the education technology sector in Africa. They also showcased successful partnerships, such as Loho Learning and Angaza Elimu, which combine content expertise with personalised learning frameworks to create impactful educational tools.
They noted that partnerships are crucial for expanding reach and making EdTech solutions more affordable, partnerships with telecom companies were discussed, with Kalamu’s collaboration in Kenya serving as a prime example.
The panelists also underscored the importance of equipping teachers with valuable tools and resources through strategic collaborations, such as the one between Edutams, Skula Skula, and Cory AI, which provides AI-powered assistants to enhance classroom learning.
Mr. Nsengimana and the Mastercard Foundation also announced the upcoming EdTech conference happening in Abuja, Nigeria from July 8-10, noting that it will bring together entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors, and educators to co-create the future of EdTech in Africa.
The Foundation’s conference, which will gather about 600 delegates from across Africa, will focus on aligning on a shared vision for EdTech in Africa and discussing actionable steps to overcome challenges and leverage opportunities.
A Daily Guide Report