TECHAiDE Global, in collaboration with the Centre for National Distance Learning and Open Schooling (CENDLOS), has unveiled an upgraded version of its innovative Asanka Digital Platform to revolutionize teaching and learning, particularly in Ghana's rural communities.
Accessible and Inclusive Education
Speaking at the launch in Accra, TECHAiDE Global CEO, Mr. Kafui Prebbie, emphasized that the upgraded Asanka platform aligns with the Ghana Education Service (GES) curriculum and offers accessibility features for individuals with visual or hearing impairments. The name "Asanka," derived from a Ghanaian local word for "pot," represents “All Subjects And New Knowledge Access”—a digital repository of educational content.
Mr. Prebbie highlighted that the platform caters to the approximately 70% of basic school students in rural areas who face challenges accessing digital learning due to limited internet connectivity. The Asanka device operates entirely offline, enabling pupils and teachers to engage with national curriculum-based content, including videos and interactive materials, without requiring internet access.
Enhanced Features and Practicality
The CEO noted that during the COVID-19 lockdown, many parents embraced the Asanka device to support their children's education at home. Now, the improved platform offers features that allow parents and teachers to monitor learners’ academic progress offline, ensuring practical and effective education solutions.
“What makes Asanka unique is that it doesn’t require internet, is directly tied to the national curriculum, and provides tools for tracking pupils’ progress on tablets or computers,” he added.
Expansion Plans
TECHAiDE Global plans to extend the Asanka platform’s content to senior high schools and expand its reach across Africa and beyond. Currently operational in The Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Liberia, the organization aims to establish a global footprint.
Support from Stakeholders
Nana Gyamfi Adwabour, Patron of TECHAiDE and Executive Director of CENDLOS, pledged continued support to expand the Asanka platform's reach. He emphasized the importance of Africa’s youth in the global workforce, urging TECHAiDE to innovate further for all educational levels.
He also called for greater collaboration among stakeholders in the digital learning ecosystem to avoid duplication of efforts and ensure the efficient use of resources.
EDNOLABS Project
As part of its Education Innovation Labs (EDNOLABS) initiative, TECHAiDE Global recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with partners, including the Ministry of Education, CAMFED, UNICEF, and others. The project aims to provide offline digital educational content to underserved communities, with plans to reach over 10,000 students, train more than 1,900 teachers, and establish 20 education labs equipped with Asanka technology across 12 regions in Ghana.
This groundbreaking initiative reflects TECHAiDE Global's commitment to transforming education and creating opportunities for all, particularly in underserved regions.
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