EdTech Mondays- Exploring AI and Technology-Driven Learning for Marginalized Communities

EdTech Mondays, is an initiative of the Mastercard foundation and MEST Africa The platform facilitates conversations on the use of technology in teaching and learning, bringing together policymakers, EdTech entrepreneurs, education stakeholders, and parents to discuss key issues and solutions

The February edition of EdTech Mondays on Citi FM sparked an enlightening discussion on the role of AI-driven learning platforms in improving education access for marginalized communities. Hosted by Bernard Avle, the episode featured industry experts Joana Eghan, Richard Duodu, and Anna Naami, who shared valuable insights into the evolving landscape of education and technology.

A major theme of the conversation was the need for structured government support in making EdTech solutions accessible to all learners. Joana Eghan, Social Media and Tech Communicator at GSET, emphasized that "Government should put structures in place to ensure that EdTech learning is accessible for learners." She also stressed the importance of equipping teachers with the right skills, stating, “Teachers need to be trained in EdTech to be able to adequately teach and impact young children.”

The discussion also highlighted the role of collaboration between parents and educators in ensuring effective EdTech adoption. Anna Naami, Founder at Mnesi, noted, "For EdTech learning to be more effective, there has to be a collaborative effort between parents and educators.” She also underscored the importance of data-driven learning, explaining, "Schools should gather data from students to better understand the needs of the students and to address them appropriately.”

Artificial Intelligence (AI) emerged as a game-changer in bridging educational gaps for children in rural areas. Richard Duodu, CEO and Lead Researcher at MetaSchool AI, highlighted how AI can make education more inclusive: "AI language models can be trained to speak the local languages to help kids learn through their own local dialects.” However, he also pointed out that government and institutional backing is crucial in ensuring sustainable solutions, stating, "Government and institutional support is needed in making sure that children get the help needed to improve."

A recurring concern was the challenges faced by students in remote areas due to inadequate infrastructure and high costs. As Richard Duodu pointed out, "Some schools are miles away from proper education, due to costs and infrastructure problems." The conversation further expanded on how marginalized communities require tailored interventions, with Joana Eghan explaining, "Marginalized people are people who have fallen short in some capabilities that prevent them from getting access to the basic things in life.”

The episode provided a thought-provoking look into how technology is reshaping education and emphasized the collective responsibility of policymakers, educators, and tech innovators in ensuring no child is left behind.

EdTech continues to gain traction. We encourage you to tune in to EdTech Mondays on Citi 97.3FM, the last Mondays of every month from 9am to 10am to join the conversation. The March edition of EdTech Mondays comes off on 31st!.

Stay connected to Citi FM and the MEST Africa Facebook page for more updates.

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