We are thrilled to announce that the National Information Technology Development Agency of Nigeria (NITDA) has embarked on a transformative journey to empower Nigerians across six digital literacy competency areas through the Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) initiative in collaboration with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and GetBundi Education Technology. The ultimate objective is to elevate Nigeria's digital literacy level to 70% by 2027 as outlined in the National Digital Literacy Framework (NDLF).

This initiative, fully supported by NITDA Director General Mr. Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, recognises the urgency of equipping individuals with the necessary tools to access and utilize online resources for education, employment, and government services safely. It aims to help individuals protect themselves online from cyber threats and misinformation, communicate and collaborate effectively using digital tools, and develop the digital fluency required for many in-demand jobs.

Under this pilot phase, NYSC members from 12 states in Nigeria will be trained by master trainers instructed by GetBundi to further educate Nigerians in their primary areas of assignment. As an incentive to the NYSC members, NITDA is sponsoring them to gain expertise in three essential digital skills: Graphics, Video Editing, and Digital Marketing, provided by GetBundi.

Machine Learning vs Artificial Intelligence by GetBundi

What is machine learning?
According to International Business Machines Corporation (IBM), machine learning is a branch of Artificial intelligence (AI) and computer science that focuses on the use of data and algorithms to imitate the way that humans learn, gradually improving its accuracy.
Machine learning is considered as a sub-set of AI, which uses algorithms trained on data sets to create machine learning models, that enable systems to perform tasks or make predictions without being explicitly programmed. These algorithms can be categorized into supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning, each serving different purposes in solving complex problems across diverse domains.
The evolution of machine learning technologies has contributed to advancements in areas such as healthcare, finance, and autonomous systems. Machine learning leverages vast datasets to enhance its performance over time, refining its ability to identify patterns, optimize decision-making, and provide valuable insights.
Its applications span from recommendation systems, fraud detection, and language translation to autonomous vehicles and personalized medicine. As technology progresses, the interdisciplinary nature of machine learning continues to drive innovation and shape the future of artificial intelligence.

Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems. Specific applications of AI include expert systems, natural language processing, and speech recognition, amongst others.
AI technologies power many devices such as chatbots, and voice assistants amongst others, and are used across several industries. These AI systems work by ingesting large amounts of labeled trained data and analyzing the data to give useful information and predictions.
AI has become a very pivotal tool in today’s world, due to the important role it plays in human lives and the workplace. In businesses, this technology is used to automate tasks done by humans, to save time and resources. Particularly when it comes to repetitive, detail-oriented tasks, AI tools often complete the jobs quickly and are prone to fewer errors.
The Relationship Between Machine Learning And Artificial Intelligence
Even though there are certain differences between Artificial Intelligence and Machine learning, they both have a similar outcome and intelligent software that can handle more complex tasks.
One similarity between Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence is that they both use data which plays an important role in computer programs. Artificial intelligence is a more extensive field that encompasses both rule-based systems and learning-based systems, machine learning is a subset specifically dedicated to learning from data.
Also, Machine learning and Artificial Intelligence are quite similar in the adaptation of data, in the sense that AI operates based on predefined rules and logic, without necessarily involving learning from data. These systems are explicitly programmed to perform a particular task.
Machine learning, on the other hand, can automatically learn and adapt from data. They excel in tasks where patterns, trends, or insights can be derived from large datasets.
Difference Between Artificial Intelligence And Machine Learning
While Machine Learning and Artificial intelligence might look similar in application and operation, there are still some notable differences between both technologies.
Here is an overview of the difference between Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning;

Complexity:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications can range from simple rule-based systems to highly complex systems that simulate human-like intelligence across diverse tasks.
Machine learning models can be complex, especially in deep learning, where neural networks have multiple layers.

Decision Making:
Traditional Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems follow predetermined decision rules based on programmed logic, while Machine learning models make decisions based on probability.

Human Intervention:
AI systems may require frequent human intervention, while machine learning can automate decision-making processes to a great extent, reducing the need for constant human intervention.
Why Are Artificial Intelligence And Machine Learning Needed in Today’s World?
The importance of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence cannot be over-emphasized, due to the essential role they play in today's world. Their applications have become integral to addressing contemporary challenges and driving innovation.
Check out some important roles Artificial Intelligence and Machine learning play in today’s world

1. Data Analysis and Insights:
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning enable organizations to analyze vast amounts of data quickly and derive meaningful insights. This is invaluable for data-driven decision-making across various industries, including business, finance, healthcare, and marketing.
2. Healthcare Advancements:

In healthcare, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning contribute to medical diagnostics, drug discovery, and personalized treatment plans. These technologies can analyze medical images, predict disease outbreaks, and optimize clinical workflows.
3. Cybersecurity:

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning play a vital role in cybersecurity by detecting and mitigating security threats. These technologies can analyze patterns, detect anomalies in network traffic, and improve the overall security posture of systems.

4. Financial Services:
In the financial industry, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning are utilized for fraud detection, algorithmic trading, credit scoring, and customer service. These technologies enhance accuracy, reduce risks, and improve overall financial decision-making.

5. Education and Personalized Learning:
Artificial Intelligence and Machine learning support personalized learning experiences by adapting educational content based on individual student performance. It provides targeted interventions and helps educators tailor instruction to meet diverse learning needs.
Can Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning be Used Together?
Yes, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are often used together. Machine learning is a subset of AI that involves the development of algorithms allowing systems to learn from data and make predictions or decisions.
Notably, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning complement each other, with machine learning serving as a valuable tool within the broader spectrum of artificial intelligence applications.
It is worth noting that GetBundi, an education technology platform, designed to deliver high-quality engaging, and accessible STEM education for post-primary school and Digital, offers both Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence courses.
These courses are designed for beginner to intermediate learning. Learners will also get to develop expertise in core Python for Machine and Generative AI
With a vision to upskill 10 Million Africans with Digital Skills in 10 Years, GetBundi is on a mission to build a new Africa based on technology.

Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS)

Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) are security mechanisms designed to detect and respond to unauthorized access or malicious activities within a network or computer system.

IDS come in two forms: network-based (NIDS) and host-based (HIDS). NIDS monitors network traffic for suspicious patterns, while HIDS monitors system activities such as log files and user activity on individual devices.

Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS)

IPS stands for intrusion prevention system. It is a network security tool that also monitors network traffic and devices for any signs of malicious activity. Unlike IDS, IPS not only detects but also actively blocks or prevents unauthorized access, attacks, or malicious activities within a network or computer system.

For example, an IPS can drop malicious packets, block traffic from the source address, reset the connection, or configure firewalls to prevent future attacks. An IPS works as an active system that sits in the direct communication path between the source and destination and analyzes all the network traffic flows along that path.

Differences And Similarities Between IDS And IPS

Both Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) are cybersecurity solutions designed to enhance the security posture of networks. They both use similar techniques to identify malicious activity, such as signature-based detection or anomaly-based detection.

While they share some similarities, they also have distinct differences in terms of functionality and purpose.

Differences Between IDS And IPS

1. Functionality:

• IDS: IDS is primarily focused on detecting and alerting about potential security breaches or unauthorized activities within a network. It analyzes network traffic and system logs to identify suspicious patterns or anomalies.

• IPS: IPS, on the other hand, not only detects but also actively prevents detected threats from compromising the network. It can automatically respond to detected threats by blocking malicious traffic or taking other predefined actions to mitigate the risk.

2. Response Mechanism:

• IDS: IDS typically provides passive monitoring and alerting capabilities. It notifies security administrators or analysts about potential security incidents, but it does not take any direct action to stop or mitigate them. It relies on human intervention to respond to the alerts and take appropriate actions.

• IPS: IPS offers active response capabilities by implementing security policies to block or allow traffic based on predefined rules or signatures. It can automatically take action to block malicious traffic in real time, thereby preventing potential security breaches.

3. Deployment Location:

• IDS: IDS sensors are typically deployed at strategic points within a network to monitor traffic and detect intrusions. They can be placed at network gateways, switches, or other critical points where network traffic flows.

• IPS: IPS solutions are often deployed inline within the network infrastructure, allowing them to actively intercept and inspect network traffic in real-time. They can be integrated directly into network devices such as firewalls or routers.

4. Risk of False Positives:

● IDS: IDS may generate more false positives since it focuses solely on detection without taking immediate action to prevent threats.

● IPS: IPS may reduce false positives as it can verify and block suspicious activities before they cause harm to the network.

Similarities:

1. Purpose:

* Both IDS and IPS solutions are designed to enhance the security posture of networks by detecting and mitigating security threats.

2. Technologies Used:

* IDS and IPS solutions often employ similar technologies, such as signature-based detection, anomaly detection, and behavioral analysis, to identify and respond to security incidents.

3. Alerting:

Both IDS and IPS solutions generate alerts or notifications when suspicious activity is detected. These alerts provide security administrators with actionable information to investigate and respond to potential threats.

4.Network Visibility:

Both IPS and IDS provide administrators with increased visibility into network traffic and security events, helping them better understand and respond to potential threats in real-time.

In summary, while IDS and IPS solutions share the common goal of improving network security, and helping to detect cyberattacks, they differ in terms of their functionality, response mechanisms, and deployment locations.

IDS focuses on passive monitoring and alerting, while IPS provides active threat prevention capabilities. Notably, both solutions play complementary roles in an organization’s cybersecurity strategy, helping to detect and mitigate security threats effectively.

Are you Interested in pursuing a career in cybersecurity? Visit GetBundi, a government-approved Educational technology platform to enroll and get certified.

For a long time, Sub-Saharan Africa has faced critical challenges for digital development, which include underdeveloped digital infrastructure, lack of accessible and affordable connectivity, digital gender gap, and limited digital skills.

However, in Africa today, the continent is currently witnessing a growing rate of digitally skilled individuals which has brought about the development of digital technologies advancing the region’s economic landscape and transforming the way people work, learn, and connect.

With the digital revolution sweeping across continents, Africa is not just an onlooker but has become an active participant in shaping its future. According to the World Bank, in the last decade, the continent has made substantial strides toward digital transformation, with hundreds of millions of people gaining access to the internet and productively utilizing a wide variety of digital services, such as mobile payments and online learning platforms.

Also, with the proliferation of mobile phones and internet access across the continent, digital skills have become indispensable for individuals in navigating the modern world. Africa is currently experiencing a digital revolution with digital technologies driving innovation and transforming industries across the continent.

From mobile banking and e-learning platforms to health and travel platforms, digital skills are at the forefront of this transformation. By fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, these digital skills have empowered several individuals on the continent to develop solutions that address pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges, bringing about sustainable development.

For instance, several individuals in Africa are leveraging digital skills to advance financial inclusion through financial technology solutions. They have built platforms like Paystack in Nigeria, M-Pesa in Kenya, and EcoCash in Zimbabwe, all of which enable users to send and receive money seamlessly, amongst other uses.

Notably, there is a growing demand for digital skills training in Africa, as more jobs will require them in the future. The IFC, a member of the World Bank Group predicted that in Sub-Saharan Africa, 230 million jobs will require digital skills by 2034. Therefore, several digital skills empowerment programs have emerged as a cornerstone of efforts to equip Africa's workforce with the capabilities needed to thrive in the digital age.

Governments, educational institutions, and private sector organizations are actively investing in initiatives aimed at enhancing digital literacy and fostering a culture of innovation. By providing training, mentorship, and access to digital tools, these programs empower individuals to harness the power of technology and contribute to economic growth and social development.

In addition to these trainings, digital skills development can be fostered through incubators and accelerators, which would provide aspiring entrepreneurs with the needed resources, training, and mentorship they need to start and grow successful businesses.

However, it is worth noting that despite the growing rate of digital skills across Africa, there is still a significant digital divide that exists on the continent, with a significant disparity between the urban and rural areas, in access to technology and digital literacy.

Bridging this divide requires concerted efforts from the government, relevant bodies, and stakeholders to provide digital skills training and ensure equitable access to technology and internet connectivity.

In a bid to bridge the digital divide in Africa, government-approved Educational technology platform GetBundi is positioned to significantly do this at scale.

The platform is designed to deliver high-quality, engaging, and accessible Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects for post-primary school education and Digital Skills Courses for youths across Africa. GetBundi's projection is to support and upskill ten million Africans in the next ten years through STEM and STI digital skills acquisition, a strategy it tagged as “The GetBundi Vision 2032”.

GetBundi understands that at the heart of Africa’s digital transformation lies the promise of digital skills. From coding, and data analytics to cyber security, acquiring these skills will empower individuals on the continent to thrive in the digital economy.

To truly harness the potential of digital skills, Africa must invest in its youth. Today, more than 60% of Africa’s population is under the age of 25. By 2034, young Africans are expected to constitute 42% of global youth. Such a high number of young people presents a great opportunity for the continent’s growth.



Conclusion

The future of digital skills in Africa holds immense promise, offering opportunities for individuals, communities, and economies to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Digital skills are driving innovation and development across economies of the world and Africa cannot afford to play catch up with the rest of the world, as it has become crucial for unlocking the continent’s potential and driving development.

Therefore, investing in digital skills education is crucial for empowering the next generation of the African population. By integrating digital literacy and skills training into formal education curricula and providing access to digital learning resources, it would equip young Africans with the tools they need to succeed in this digital age and as well develop the continent.

In today’s rapidly evolving world, digital skills have become paramount for increased income for individuals and nations alike.

Research from Amazon Web Services (AWS) disclosed that investing in digital skills benefits individuals and could raise the gross domestic product (GDP) of nations.

For Nigeria, a country with vast potential and a large youth population, empowering these young people with relevant digital skills will not only enable them to participate in the digital economy and earn in foreign currency but will also provide a vital pathway to boosting dollar generation in the country thereby driving economic growth.

It is understood that the Nigerian economy is susceptible to fluctuations in the foreign exchange market, which has led to instability in the value of Naira. The Naira has continued to fall significantly against the dollar in the exchange market. This comes despite the efforts by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to bring stability to the foreign exchange (FX) market.

This decline in the value of the Naira, has plagued the nation with far-reaching consequences which include rising inflation, reduced purchasing power, and increased economic uncertainty.

It has spurred the CBN to roll out different measures to mitigate the forex crisis which include the introduction of a singular foreign currency (FCY) gateway bank, to centralize all correspondent banking activities and facilitate international trade and economic activities. Also, the apex bank has announced a plan to streamline the number of BDC operators in Nigeria to improve the inflow of forex and stabilize the naira.

The prevailing forex backlog, coupled with external challenges amidst global economic uncertainties, no doubt casts a shadow of uncertainty over Nigeria's economic horizon.

With all these, it is clear that relying solely on Naira-denominated income exposes a lot of Nigerians to currency risk and economic uncertainties. Therefore, diversifying income streams to include dollar-denominated sources will not only provide stability and resilience against domestic economic downturns but will also safeguard financial well-being in the long run.

Apart from buying and eating made in Nigeria to reduce pressure on the currency, the biggest avenue to raise the dollar is for Nigeria to embrace digital skills development for the youths.

Imagine if Nigeria trains 5 million youths in the next three years and they receive only $1000 per month, multiplied by a year, this will not only improve their income but will also spur economic growth. Therefore, in other to achieve this, government-approved Educational Technology platform GetBundi is positioned to significantly do this at scale.

The startup is designed to deliver high-quality, engaging, and accessible Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) subjects for post-primary school education and Digital Skills Courses for youths across Africa.

GetBundi's projection is to support and upskill ten million Africans in the next ten years through STEM and STI digital skills acquisition, a strategy it tagged as “The GetBundi Vision 2032”.

Its investment in digital skills for Nigerian youths is a critical step towards transforming the economy and achieving sustainable growth and development. This can help build a skilled and innovative workforce, increase productivity, and enhance digital infrastructure, all of which are essential ingredients for economic success in the current digital age.



Below are several advantages Nigeria and its youths stand to gain with GetBundi digital upskilling, as well as strategies for boosting dollar generation;

● Tech Innovation and Startups: By fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship through digital skills training, Nigeria can nurture homegrown tech startups that have the potential to attract foreign investment and venture capital. These startups can develop innovative solutions for local and global challenges, thereby generating revenue in dollars through product sales and investments.



● National Development and Economic Resilience: Ultimately, a workforce earning in dollars contributes to national development and economic resilience by bolstering foreign exchange reserves, reducing reliance on oil exports, and promoting sustainable economic diversification.



● Access to Global Markets: With digital skills, Nigerian youths and businesses can tap into global markets with ease. Through e-commerce platforms, freelancing websites, and digital marketing channels, Nigerian products and services can reach international customers, thereby increasing foreign exchange earnings in dollars.



● Remote Work Opportunities: Digital skills enable Nigerians to participate in the global gig economy by offering remote services such as software development, graphic design, digital marketing, and content creation. This opens up avenues for earning income in dollars without geographical constraints.



● Digital Export of Services: Beyond physical goods, Nigeria can export digital services such as software development, digital marketing, cybersecurity, and data analysis to clients worldwide. This not only diversifies the country's expenses but also creates opportunities for earning foreign exchange in dollars.

In conclusion, empowering Nigerian youths with digital skills is not just about technological proficiency, but also about unlocking economic potential and driving dollar generation in an increasingly digital world.

Notably, digital literacy among these youths can see them navigate the challenges of a depreciating Naira and thrive in an increasingly interconnected and competitive global economy

It’s no news that there has been a lot of conversation around STEM education in recent years.

We know you might be trying to figure out what the hype is about.

Why is everyone suddenly interested in STEM education, or what is it all about? Well, we intend to educate, inform and enlighten you about everything that you need to know about STEM education.


The term ‘STEM’ is becoming more prominent today, especially in the educational system.

If you do proper research, you will find out that the educational system of different countries has evolved, and it’s no longer business as usual.

Hence, the infusion of STEM into the educational system.

However, STEM education in Nigeria is beginning to get the right amount of attention as more platforms such as GetBundi are being created.

This article will give you a proper insight into STEM education, its benefits and its importance. But first, you need to know what STEM education is.

What Is STEM Education?

STEM Education is an educational approach that marries Science, Technology, Engineering and Math education and its application.

As opposed to teaching these subjects individually, ‘STEM’ integrates them into a comprehensive learning pattern with real-life situations.

It explains that students would approach these subjects practically rather than the abstract way of thinking.

STEM education is created to empower students to stand tall in the business/career world.

In this educational system, the focus is on problem-solving learning.

With the evolution of the world becoming a global village, any student that is STEM literate has been proven to be more innovative.

Applying this knowledge and impacting their immediate communities comes easy to them.

Recent studies have proven that secondary school graduates with a STEM education tend to transition into the university seamlessly.

Isn’t that amazing?

In an ever-evolving world, STEM education is one of the major things every kid in Nigeria and Africa at large needs to stand out.

Why Is STEM Education Important In 2022?

Attaining a sustainable economy in any nation requires a key focus on innovation. That is what STEM education gives you.

We often say that “children are the leaders of tomorrow”. How do these children prepare for the leadership of tomorrow?

STEM education prepares every child for the future and the challenges that come with it.

The careers in STEM-related fields are increasing every day.

How else do you prepare your kids to excel in these fields? By equipping and educating them with the required materials, in this case, STEM.

However, this form of education doesn’t just revolve around the classroom or kids. It revolves around everyone (kids and adults).

Adults can also get educated in STEM.

We bet you love the sound of that. Parents can acquire STEM education along with their kids on the GetBundi platform.

Let’s get back to the importance of STEM education.

You might be wondering why STEM education is important in 2022?

Below are some of the critical reasons for this method of education and how it impacts our lives generally.

1. It encourages innovation

The recent pandemic opened our eyes to the relevance of technology. People had to embrace the virtual means of communication.

This gave rise to the emergence of several relevant apps and platforms to carry out different activities.

With the sudden rise of the tech industry in the world, it’s almost impossible to keep up with the trend these days.

However, this has helped to create more job opportunities.

Countries and companies that invested in technology have been able to improve their economy widely.

This shows that innovation in every industry is a boost for the economy.

Guess what? Innovation is the heart of technology. You can get that through the STEM education system.

When people have access to STEM education, innovation comes easy as they are taught to apply the knowledge to real-life situations.

The higher the STEM literacy, the higher the innovation in a country.

2. Creation of employment opportunities

It is proposed that in the nearest future, professions will require a deep understanding of STEM skills.

This means as modern technology gets embraced, the skills required to function are needed.

That’s where STEM education comes into the picture.

When people have the required skills, they are open to more opportunities in the market.

As the tech industry continues to grow, those with STEM skills will continue to get employed, while those without STEM skills might find it hard to stay afloat.

3. Fosters critical thinking

STEM education doesn’t just bring job opportunities, it also encourages the mindset of critical thinking when approaching any situation.

With a mindset of critical thinking, a STEM-literate can thrive and excel in any sector of the economy.

The course outline and teaching will help the student to think critically and come up with a suitable solution individually.

4. Increasing the talent pool

For companies to stay on top of their game, they need to employ the best talents. They go for talents that will help them stay relevant in the market.

Hence, several companies are investing in STEM education for their employees to help them stay relevant.

They also employ people with STEM skills. From research and development teams to engineers, web and app developers and designers, companies take out time to get the best.

As long as companies invest in STEM education, their talent pool will keep increasing. They can select their teams from a large pool of talents.

5. Development of relevant skills

Developing relevant skills is the only way to stay relevant in your career in 2022.

The world is now a global village. With everything almost digitalized, the only way to stay relevant in your career is to infuse digital skills into your work.

How can you achieve that without getting a STEM education? What a time to invest in the STEM education system.

Due to the fact this method of education allows detailed research, critical thinking and innovation, educating your kids will be an investment for their future.

Every parent that exposes their children to STEM education is creating a future full of opportunities for them.

Who says developing relevant skills can’t start from a very young age? This can only be done by exposing your children to STEM education early.

6. Developing management skills

When it comes to STEM education, students can earn some management skills. Do you know that the courses taken have a lot to do with practical projects?

As they embark on these projects, they learn time management, strategies and implementations.

Whether as an employer, entrepreneur or employee, these skills will help them throughout their lives.

As a team leader or employer, you can expose your employees to STEM education to build their management skills.

7. Creates opportunity for teamwork

Do you know that teamwork is one of the key drivers of success? Every organization requires teamwork to handle any project successfully.

In STEM education, the environment to foster teamwork is created. Whether, they’re in the laboratory, solving a problem or building something, the tasks require some level of collaboration to accomplish.

You can bet that the team spirit is built during these tasks.

8. Bridging the gender gap

The gender gap in the tech industry is quite obvious to everyone. Have you wondered why there are more men in the tech industry?

According to Apple, among several other big tech companies, less than 40% of females make up the employees across the world in 2021.

This data seems to be better than in previous years. Most people believe that girls are not exposed to enough opportunities to explore technology.

We believe that exposing the girl-child to STEM education early on will help bridge the gap gradually.

Once both genders are exposed to equal opportunities, the number of women in the tech industries will increase.

You can expose all your children to STEM education through logging on to GetBundi.

STEM education improves creativity and encourages a problem-solving mindset, which helps students approach problems differently.

10 Benefits of STEM Education You Never Knew

The benefits of implementing STEM education into the schooling system are beyond the pages of books.

Many people have benefitted from getting exposed to STEM education.

One thing we can tell you is that every child that gets a STEM education is built to succeed in every field.

Out of numerous benefits, here are ten main benefits of STEM education you probably never knew.

1. It enhances experimentation

Experimentation has birthed a great deal of the brilliant innovations we have today. STEM education is highly recommended because the courses encourage students to experiment.

Such STEM-literate students are not afraid of taking risks, which can potentially become an amazing innovation.

2. STEM students build resilience

Resilience requires some level of tenacity that students get introduced to when exposed to STEM education.

During some of the activities, a safe environment is created where students can make mistakes and learn from them.

This builds their confidence and makes them resilient in bringing their ideas to life in the long run.

Failure is taught to be a process that can eventually lead to success.

3. It improves creativity

Creativity is the centrepiece of STEM education. Students are encouraged to brainstorm and come up with unique ideas.

This is how some of the ground-breaking innovations came into existence.

In STEM education, ideas are never shut down, rather they are encouraged and tried.

Enrol your children in STEM education. Who knows, they might be the next Mark Zuckerberg or Steve Jobs.

4. Encourages the use of technology

Students of STEM education are taught the power of technology and how to use it early on. This helps them to embrace new technologies when they come in contact with them.

As the world is becoming tech-centred, you or your children are not to be left out.

STEM education creates a space where technology is embraced and encouraged widely.

5. Develops communication skills

Some people cannot communicate their ideas and strategies properly because they did not develop the skills in the early years of their lives.

Communication is an important life skill and every job requires good communication skills.

With group activities, students develop communication and other sociable skills like time management, open-mindedness, and teamwork.

6. Improves cognitive skills

Cognitive skills are brain-based skills that involve learning and the acquisition of knowledge.

With STEM education, students can develop and improve their cognitive skills engagement in subjects like coding and engineering.

They can get introduced to these subjects in as early as primary school. With this, we will be breeding geniuses.

This also improves their problem-solving skills, whereby, the students increase their speed in solving any kind of problem.

7. Promotes teamwork

Students with different abilities are put together in the same group to solve a problem, record data and make presentations.

This helps them to learn how to collaborate and work together in a team.

8. Encourages knowledge application

In STEM education, students are taught real-life situations that help them apply the knowledge acquired.

The ability to apply knowledge is lacking in many graduates, especially in Nigeria. This is why STEM education is needed.

People can apply the knowledge they have received and approach problems in a solution-oriented way.

9. Enhances adaptation

The ability to adapt the concepts and principles learnt to several challenges can be attained through being exposed to STEM education.

10. Builds confidence in problem-solving

STEM education goes a long way to help curious students develop the skills to tackle real-life problems by impacting them with practical knowledge.

Their self-confidence is built over time.

They know how to take the initiative to tackle any issue with a positive attitude and a problem mindset.

In STEM education, learning is more fun and practical for students.

This method of education encourages students to develop and improve their social-emotional learning (SEL) skills. SEL skills will help them impact their immediate community positively.

These skills will help them cope with daily academic, social, and professional challenges. The SEL skills include;

self-awareness,
self-management,
social awareness,
relationship skills, and
responsible decision-making.
We encourage you to take advantage of the opportunity GetBundi is offering through its direct access to STEM education.

Visit our www.getbundi.com to find out more information.

Written by Olamide Ayeni

Would it really be necessary to explain what STEM Education is again? I could do a quick preview.

STEM Education is a system of four, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. And, this system is woven in such a way that they are interdependent on one another. This means that a STEM student is not just learning one phase of the programme, but is learning all four from a point or from one activity. But, why is this STEM Education really important? Why is it necessary for my child to have this orientation? What is the long term return if I invest and go into this STEM Education for my child? What makes it so different from the things they learn in school? Is it not going to be a waste of years?

You sure do have a lot of questions to ask. Because, of course, this is the life and future of your child we’re talking about here. It’s not easy to leave the normal traditional learning that you went through and that a lot of other kids around you are going through, and just start something new and different for your own child. But, I would love to douse your doubts one after the other.


Here are 5 reasons why STEM Education is important and fun!

The STEM activities provide hands-on and minds-on lessons for its students.
It ensures that as the students are learning and creating and working with their hands and eyes, their minds are working too, to connect all the dots and see outside the box and thinking frame that they are used to. The students can correlate the different procedures after each step is well understood and can create a different or similar pattern to get the same result. Take for example, a child that is being taught a particular maths sum by using sticky notes number match or any other fun STEM method. He can play around with those sums and come up with an entirely different approach that even you did not see. That is the power of the brain and the mind and STEM Education is just to help harness that power

2. Cooking is also Education in STEM Education

This might sound funny but yes, cooking is also a way to educate the student when it comes to STEM. With it, the students can learn about all the properties of food and why certain foods are not given to certain people. In baking classes, the action of yeast is well elaborated to the students which also be linked to the way rockets are launched. The students can also use a thermometer to measure temperature and then learn the effect of adding things to boiling water. The students also learn how many teaspoons of ingredients will be sufficient for the food being cooked.
Take for example, we are trying to boil meat and we have 9 big chunks of meat but we are a big class of 18 students, the STEM teacher can just ask them what they think should be done so that the meat goes round for everybody. How fast the students come up with ideas will surprise you.

3. The STEM programme allows the students to dismantle and assemble things.

This is to enable them to see how that thing works. It also opens the gateway for the many questions that the student may have. It also builds resilience in the students and encourages experimentation. It allows them to see failure and setbacks as a part of the growth to being better. It also builds an outspoken child with a wider horizon of understanding and an open mind.

4. Taking Nature Walks is also part of STEM Education

You know how in our traditional system of learning, students get to visit a place or go on an excursion once or twice before leaving the school and the excursion venues are recycled year after year. Well, for STEM Education, it is believed that there is knowledge in everything and everywhere. So, a common walk in the park can make a child curious about so many things, a visit to the aquarium could make a child ask why the sea water is blue and why the fishes are of different colours while the one his mommy cooks doesn’t have colour. A visit to the tree reserve could explain oxygen and carbon dioxide and why trees are very important to society.

5. STEM Education exposes the student

This does not mean that it puts the student in harm’s way. No. It simply means that it exposes the student to important issues in the world, new and updated learning strategies, modern people to learn from, wrong ways people are doing some things too. It exposes the student but also arms him with the necessary information and strategy coupled with his expanded and cultivated ability to think outside the box, to make a difference.

The future of your child is not guaranteed by this traditional learning system. For further information on STEM Education or to begin today, visit www.getbundi.com

Written by Bright

Introduction

By now you’re probably familiar with the term “STEM education.” It’s becoming a hot topic for good reason. STEM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering, and math.

With these four areas of study serving as the building blocks of STEM education, countries, and schools all over the world are working to incorporate more STEM initiatives into their curriculums.
But as a parent, you might still be wondering what exactly is so special about this type of learning? Well, there’s a lot to learn about STEM starting with how it can benefit your kids both in school and far beyond.

Here are seven ways your child will benefit from being exposed to STEM Education:

1. STEM education builds 21st century skills

STEM education allows students to develop 21st century skills through project-based learning and inquiry. These skills include problem-solving, collaboration, communication, and creativity.

They are important because they allow students to adapt to a rapidly changing world where technology is constantly evolving.

2. STEM education prepares students for the future of work

STEM education prepares students for the future of work. STEM jobs are growing faster than other jobs, and they’re more likely to be in demand, high-paying, secure and available.

This means that a STEM degree will provide your child with an excellent opportunity to earn a good living in the future.

3. STEM education helps to develop creative thinking

STEM education teaches students how to develop creative thinking and become independent and/or collaborative learners.

In addition to these important practical skills, STEM also helps kids develop creative thinking. This means they’ll be able to look at a problem from different angles and come up with solutions that are not obvious or conventional.

STEM education encourages students to think outside the box — which is why it’s so effective at helping students become more creative thinkers!

4. STEM education encourages critical thinking and problem solving

STEM education is critical for developing problem-solving skills and the ability to think critically. These are two of the most important skills you can have as an adult in today’s world, which is why STEM education is so crucial.

STEM education teaches students how to think critical thinking skills by teaching them how to analyse information and make decisions based on evidence rather than opinion or hearsay.

For example, if you take a picture of an object under different lighting conditions using your phone camera (a STEM device), will the image look the same? You will need to conduct an experiment to find out!

You can then apply this knowledge by asking questions about other situations such as “Does playing video games make kids smarter?” or “Are there any benefits from reading books instead of surfing social media?”

In a world where jobs are becoming automated, companies are moving away from hiring employees based on their technical skills and toward those who can think critically and collaborate effectively with their colleagues to solve problems together.

5. STEM education promotes teamwork and collaboration

In today’s world, the need for collaboration is greater than ever before. STEM education promotes teamwork and collaboration in students by allowing them to work together on projects that require several skill sets — from coding to designing and building prototypes.

Students of varying levels can work together in teams to find solutions to problems, record data, write reports and presentations, build prototypes, or even conduct experiments.

This promotes effective interdisciplinary communication as well as a mindset that enables you not only to become a part of the highly qualified workforce but also to function within it.

6. STEM education encourages the use of technology

STEM education encourages the use of technology. Exposing your child to STEM education benefits them by helping to develop their minds in the best way possible. It does this by encouraging the use of technology during and after each learning process.

7. STEM careers will not only help your child earn more money but also help them to develop their minds in the best way possible!

With the many different jobs available, you don’t have to worry about your child being bored or struggling with finding a job. There are so many opportunities for them out there that they might not even know about!

Your child will be able to become an independent learner through STEM education. This means that they will be able to learn things on their own and solve problems without needing someone else’s help every time something goes wrong.

If you want your child to be prepared for the future and have more opportunities in life, then STEM education is definitely a great way to go.

It will help them develop their critical thinking skills as well as problem-solving abilities while also teaching them how they can work with others better.

By doing this, they will be able to work together more effectively which is an important part of any job today and one that doesn’t get enough focus in schools right now!

Written by Bright

The yoke of underdevelopment around Africa’s neck has not diminished its immense potential to transform its own and the global economy. The continent’s greatest asset remains its young population, the world’s largest, with over 60 percent of its entire population under 25. But to unlock this potential, education is key.

Rebecca Winthrop, Co-director, Center for Universal Education and Senior Fellow, Global Economy and Development, reckons that ensuring high-quality education opportunities for all Africa’s children and youth that prepare them for the 21st century world is “not only the right thing to do — children everywhere have a right to a quality education — but is also the smart thing to do”.

“The growth in the world’s labor market is in Africa. As other parts of the world begin to age, Africa will grow its population and today’s children will be the talent tomorrow’s global companies will be recruiting. In the next 30 years, it is projected that sub-Saharan Africa’s working-age population will increase more than twofold — accounting for 68 percent of the world’s total growth. Economists have shown that when controlling for other factors, increasing girls’ and boys’ years of schooling (and the skills they learn while there) has a positive effect on economic growth,” Winthrop says.

The education Africa needs can no longer be education for its own sake. Winthrop’s reference, clearly, is to “high-quality education” that prepares Africa’s children and youth “for the 21st century world”. Miranda Meents, PhD Candidate in Botany at the University of British Columbia (UBC), in a blog post “How Education Changes The World”, reckons that the goal of education shouldn’t necessarily be to achieve a “higher state of knowledge” but “we should work to equip our students with the tools they need to go out into the world and shape it for themselves”.

In other words, for Africa to produce the pool of talent it needs for its own internal development, the pool of workforce that tomorrow’s global companies will recruit, the education of the continent’s children and youth has to align with the needs of 21st-century industry. And the world has long been moving in the direction of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education to meet these growing needs.

The place of STEM education in overall development cannot be debated. Experts agree that STEM education encourages creativity, innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills which are very relevant in the 21st century world. It prepares developing economies to compete in the global market, create especially STEM jobs, and improve wealth. For Africa, a continent beset on all sides by innumerable challenges, STEM education should be a sine qua non.

“STEM is one critical leg for creatively developing the solutions and innovations that we need in Africa across a range of life-supporting fields — health, food production, basic infrastructure, environment, manufacturing and so forth,” says Gecci Karuri-Sebina, Associate Professor at Wits University, South Africa, who coordinates the Civic Tech Innovation Network, an African community of practice of various public interest innovators.

“Don’t see STEM as just a route to traditional professions — doctor, engineer, academic. There are many ways to leverage these technical knowledge fields, and new technologies are opening many opportunities for anyone to pick and play various roles,” she says in an interview published on Africa Renewal.

Clearly, Africa’s ability to produce a generation of young professionals who can take charge of their countries’ development lies in STEM education. The continent needs massive investment in STEM education for young people if it is to realise its potential to contain some of the world’s fastest-growing economies.

Currently, Africa’s STEM capabilities lag the rest of the world. Not many young Africans today are pursuing careers in STEM-related fields. The African Development Bank (AfDB) puts the figure at less than 25 percent of African higher education students. In other words, less than three out of 10 African higher education students pursue STEM-related career fields.

This less-than-desirable enrolment in STEM-related fields comes with consequences.

“It potentially means that regardless of Africa’s talent pool, public and private institutions would have to source workers in those fields from outside of the continent consequently, leading to a limited domestic STEM workforce,” argues Osita Oparaugo, the Founder of GetBundi, a STEM based educational technology platform for post-primary school based in Nigeria”.

This is not a prophecy as it is happening already. STEM jobs across the African continent today are being outsourced to countries that including China, India, and the United States of America owing to the paucity of a domestic STEM workforce. In Nigeria, as in most of Africa, railway construction is dominated by the Chinese due to China’s large pool of engineers. A case in point is the 27km Lagos Blue Line linking Okokomaiko to Marina in the heart of Nigeria’s commercial capital, which is being handled by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC).

Kayode Yusuf, a finance professional and journalist, points to how Africa’s long-term economic prospects are being constrained by severe skills shortages in many vital sectors, including accounting and finance.

“However, one of the areas that requires immediate attention is STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). If Africa does not start building capacity in these subjects, its progress towards achieving sustainable and comprehensive growth will be severely challenged.”

Yusuf writes in a June 2018 article for the Africa edition of Accounting and Business magazine.

Without a doubt, part of the solutions to Africa’s economic and social woes lies in encouraging young Africans to pursue STEM education. Unless this is done, and urgently too, Africa will continue to be the dustbin of the developed world.

There is a recollection by Ohemaa Adjei Andoh that illustrates the role teachers should play in shaping the choices their students make:

“I remember wanting to study a different course in my secondary school but my science teacher advised my mum that I do science because he thought that would be better for me. My mum went on a school tour with me at KNUST and spoke to some lecturers before we finally decided to go with Geological Engineering. So, I did General Science before going to KNUST for my bachelor’s degree.”

Andoh says in an interview with Africa Renewal. She did not only earn a Bachelor of Science in Geological Engineering from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in Kumasi, Ghana, but went on to join Schlumberger, an Oil and Gas Service Company, where she trained as a Simulations Engineer and later as a Cementing Engineer. Today, through Girls in Science and Technology (GIST) which she helped form, Andoh is part of a group advocating for women and girls in STEM and providing mentoring, training and internship opportunities for young women in STEM. Her academy for kids, PM STEAM Academy, focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) hands-on activities to help kids embrace their creativity and to develop their interest in STEAM at an early age.

No doubt, encouraging young Africans to pursue STEM education holds solutions to Africa’s economic and social woes. And teachers will, and do, play a big part in this regard. Of course, whether students love or hate STEM subjects, or any other subject, depends on how they are taught. This was the point Diane Sengati, Director of Digital Content and Instructional Technology Development at Rwanda Education Board, was making when she said, “Most students don’t pursue STEM subjects because they think it is very difficult, but the perceived difficulties root from how they have been taught those subjects. If you teach the subject in a friendlier way, it becomes easier and attracts more students.”

Africa has set lofty targets in STEM education through the African Union’s Agenda 2063. The Agenda lists seven aspirations for the continent by 2063, among which is that Africa’s youth should be guaranteed full access to education, training, skills and technology, and to all necessary resources to realise their full potential. It projects that by that target year Africa should be a continent where “well educated and skilled citizens, underpinned by science, technology, and innovation for a knowledgeable society is the norm and no child misses school due to poverty”.

These aspirations are achievable, clearly. However, for that to happen, there should be a recognition of the centrality of teachers, and emphasis must be placed on putting them at the forefront. Part of the challenges so far has been acute teacher shortage, with sub-Saharan Africa alone needing an estimated 15 million more teachers, according to Rebecca Winthrop, Co-director, Center for Universal Education and Senior Fellow, Global Economy and Development.

One of the strategies that would aid in stepping up Africa’s STEM education is to better equip teachers. As Adefunke Ekine, Associate Professor of Childhood Education, Tai Solarin University of Education, and Ayotola Aremu, Professor of Educational Technology, University of Ibadan, put it, “African policymakers must prioritize building the capacity of teachers and STEM teachers in particular. They need to be intentionally equipped with strategies that encourage collaboration rather than competition, peer teaching, hands-on activities, mentoring by role models — whether online or in person. More specifically, teachers need to be trained in using tools like learning packages, simulations, games, and storytelling to more effectively engage learners. These curriculum resources, including textbooks, should come with content that showcase females in various fields.”

Osita Oparaugo, the Founder of GetBundi, a STEM based educational platform for post-primary school, has said that their resources can be used by secondary schools as teacher’s aid, a resource platform for students’ assignment, individual or group study guide, home learning for in school and out of school students, and as a guide for competitive external examinations.

The Government of Rwanda is already prioritising teacher training. The country boasts of an education policy that emphasises training of teachers in enhanced teaching pedagogy on lesson delivery that connects classroom learning with the local environment. It has set up capacity-building frameworks to address the barriers hindering STEM uptake in the country. Through this means, it can address the limited number of qualified STEM teachers and STEM teachers’ inability to localise STEM teaching. With a curriculum framework that incorporates building of teachers’ capacity, with continuous professional development in school leadership, management, improvement planning, coaching, and mentoring, these measures are reported to have improved STEM education uptake in Rwanda.

But the task ahead is not for governments alone. African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS), with a vision to lead the transformation of Africa through innovative scientific training, technical advances and breakthrough discoveries, recognises this. It also acknowledges that this transformation will only come when Africa’s youth are enabled to shape the continent’s future through Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education, public engagement and research. AIMS reckons that investing in training well-rounded teachers and improving their pedagogy is the best way to improve learning outcomes for secondary school students and increase the transition of African youth to tertiary STEM education. It is therefore executing some programmes to empower teachers, support them, and equip them with the right skills and resources to teach boys and girls the right way.

In Cameroon and Rwanda, for instance, AIMS, through a partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, is running a five-year Teacher Training Program (TTP) whose goal is to build a sustainable pipeline of home-grown STEM talent in Africa. AIMS is raising the quality of teaching and learning Mathematics through professional development courses, high-quality classroom resources and technology-driven Smart Classrooms. These programmes have so far trained over 5,000 teachers. In South Africa, AIMS is providing outstanding professional development courses to Mathematics teachers, subject advisers, and field trainers through the AIMS Schools Enrichment Centre (AIMSSEC), which uses a blended learning approach to improve subject knowledge and empower teachers from disadvantaged rural and township communities. Also in Ghana, AIMS Master of Mathematical Sciences for Teachers (MMST) launched in November 2020 equips teachers with the requisite skills to understand and address the specific learning needs of female and male learners at the secondary level. The the programme is delivered in a hybrid model, with 30 percent residential and 70 percent online.

These efforts are a mere drop in the ocean, given the huge gap between Africa and the rest of the world in STEM education. The continent urgently needs to invest in STEM education for its young people if it is to turn its youthful population, the world’s largest with over 60 percent currently under 25, into a goldmine. A key place to start is equipping the teachers who are at the forefront of, firstly, making Africa’s youth to take up STEM and, secondly, imparting this all-important STEM knowledge. The time is now for countries in Africa, public and private institutions, non-governmental organisations, and all stakeholders to put heads together and give this idea a real push. Africa’s immense potential to improve its economy and that of the world cannot forever remain a potential.

It has been said time and again that Africa has immense potential to transform its economy and that of the world, and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education has a huge role to play in this regard. Over the next decade, STEM job openings requiring STEM literacy are expected to increase by the thousands, according to thestempedia.com, and Africa, whose labour force is projected to surpass that of India and China by 2040, stands to benefit the most. But to derive these benefits, Africa’s burgeoning young population will have to be equipped with requisite skills for the 21st century economy hinged on STEM education.

The continent currently lags behind the rest of the world in STEM education, with less than 25 percent of African higher education students pursuing STEM-related career fields and more students pursuing social sciences and humanities, according to the African Development Bank (AfDB).

To make quality STEM education available, accessible and cost-effective across Africa is possible. However, the burden cannot be borne by government alone. It requires collaborations through public private partnerships with global agencies, NGOs, Ministries of Education across Africa, multinational corporations, financial institutions and telecommunication companies. This is where Wings of Justice Africa, has stepped in to create impact through its product, GetBundi having realised the criticality of STEM education to Africa’s future.

Indeed, as Adefunke Ekine, Associate Professor of Childhood Education at Tai Solarin University of Education, and Ayotola Aremu, Professor of Educational Technology at University of Ibadan, have observed,

“Without a huge investment in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, Africa will not achieve the goals the African Union has laid out in her 2063 agenda.”

To be clear, the African Union’s Agenda 2063, a long-term framework intended to transform the African continent over a 50-year period, aspires for inclusive growth and sustainable education programmes that can ensure skills revolution emphasising innovation, science, and technology. The Agenda 2063 projects that by 2063 Africa should be a continent where “well educated and skilled citizens, underpinned by science, technology, and innovation for a knowledgeable society is the norm and no child misses school due to poverty”.

High quality, STEM-based secondary education that is accessible to all will, no doubt, prepare youths to enter the workforce, improve productivity, and spur economic transformation, unlocking a virtuous cycle of both human and economic development. However, STEM education in Africa is bogged down by issues around cost, access, quality, and teachers’ welfare.

Mr. Osita Oparaugo is of the strong view that Africa must embrace and prepare its populace for a future driven by technology, ensuring that the continent emerges as a global competitor.

Indeed, EdTech has the capacity to contribute so much in turning Africa’s fortunes around. With the right support, EdTech may begin the journey towards reversing the current trend where a continent that boasts 60 percent of the world’s arable lands, 30 percent of the world’s reserve of minerals, and the world’s youngest population, ironically, produces only “3 percent of global GDP, accounts for less than 3 percent of international trade (mainly primary commodities and natural resources), and shoulders 25 percent of the global disease burden”.

The number of school-age African children who are out of school has increased over the past year, worsened by the COVID-19 which led to lengthy school closures.

According to UNESCO, school closures have affected around 250 million students in sub-Saharan Africa, in addition to the 100 million children who were not in school before the pandemic. The reopening of schools across Africa brought forth the reality that millions of students will not return. In South Africa, 400,000 to 500,000 students dropped out of school between
March 2020 and July 2021, UNICEF data show. In Uganda, which had the longest school closures in the world, many girls did not resume classes when schools reopened on January 10, 2021, according to Edith Mutethya in an article, “COVID worsens Africa’s education crisis”. The girls had either got married, become pregnant, or given birth during the period of school closure. Some students had also used the period to work and earn so money and so were less interested in classes. The situation is not so different across many parts of Africa.

To mitigate its out-of-school challenge, experts say Africa must find innovative ways to ensure continuous learning among its teeming youth. Africa’s youth population is expected to nearly double to1 billion by 2050 and by 2075, almost half of the world’s young people will be African. This implies that the global workforce will increasingly be African. This is a blessing if African youth are equipped with the right education and skills. The reverse will be the case if they are not. As Dr Edward K. Brown, Senior Director of Research, Policy and Programs at the African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET), affirms, “With the right education and training, Africa’s youth population will provide the region with an unparalleled comparative advantage in labour and human resources — and will accelerate Africa’s economic transformation at the same time. Consider that each additional year of schooling in Africa raises individual earnings by 11 percent for males and 14 percent for females.”

There is a convergence of opinions pointing to the need for Africa to focus on secondary education, given that secondary education will be the last schooling most young Africans will receive before they enter the labour market. Rebecca Winthrop, Co-director, Center for Universal Education and
Senior Fellow, Global Economy and Development, argues that in sub-Saharan Africa before the pandemic, of the 98 percent of children who enrol in primary school, only 9 percent make it to tertiary education and only 6 percent graduate. “University preparation is important, but the main focus should be on flexible secondary education pathways that prepare young people for work,” she says. As such, Africa needs secondary education that provides students with the right skills and knowledge needed to be prepared
for the new world of work.

Demand for secondary education is on the rise in Africa, and in sub-Saharan Africa, the demand is expected to nearly double by 2030, requiring increased supply and quality. But this demand is not being met. Strong progress in boosting primary enrolment has not been complemented with broad access to secondary education. Key hurdles have included a scarcity of schools, teacher shortage, inadequate infrastructure, poverty, limited teaching time due to high teacher absenteeism, unwieldy class sizes, and gender inequities. The pandemic worsened the shortage of teachers. Many teachers, especially those employed by private schools, left the teaching profession during the pandemic and sought other means of livelihood because their salaries were suspended while the closures lasted. The Education Commission, a major global initiative engaging world leaders, policymakers, and researchers to develop a renewed and compelling investment case and financing pathway for achieving equal educational opportunity for children and young people, estimates that sub Saharan Africa needs to invest $175 billion per year through 2050 to support
secondary education for all.

But the difficulty in accessing a quality, traditional secondary education can be mitigated through e-learning. The rise of the internet and new technologies has radically changed the concept of traditional education and being physically present in a classroom is no longer the only learning option, writes Gemma Josep, Content Manager for Classgap, an online platform whose purpose is to facilitate communication between teachers and students, in a January 2022 article. In countries with poor infrastructure, online education enables students to learn from their own homes.

This is the whole idea behind GetBundi developed by Wings of Justice Africa Limited — to make quality education, especially STEM, available, accessible and cost-effective across Africa.


“Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), as well as English Language, must be of great focus to achieve an Africa beyond aid. Creating a knowledge-based economy through STEM education is a lifeline for the continent, ensuring the growth of a STEM capable citizenry. Massification of STEM education as a countermeasure will enable Africa to meet and exceed global competition and prepare for the future,”

Osita Oparaugo, GetBundi Founder says.

Cognizant of the challenges that lack of internet access poses, Wings of Justice has agreed in principle with telecommunications and satellite internet service companies across Africa for partnership to ensure that GetBundi permeates the continent, reaching the targets regardless of their location.

Yet, it is incumbent on governments in Africa to work on expanding the coverage of broadband internet and technology infrastructure in areas that lack them to better enable distance learning.

As Paul Prinsloo, a research professor at the University of South Africa, said in a March 2014 article, “There is no doubt that ODeL [open distance and e-learning] has huge potential to contribute to economic growth, erase inter-generational poverty and address societal injustices and inequalities on the African continent.”