ATB launches tech-driven ECD solution for rural kids

Afrika Tikkun Bambanani (ATB) has launched the BambaLearn App, a cutting-edge edtech solution designed to revolutionise early childhood education in rural and underprivileged communities in South Africa. The BambaLearn App aims to extend the reach of ATB’s standardised ECD curriculum and ensure that no child is left behind.

The ATB programme is focused on providing play-based learning through trained ECD teachers who will build a solid foundation for children’s education and overall well-being. The BambaLearn App will equip teachers with the tools to assess and monitor learner development, screen for learning difficulties, provide psychosocial support, and monitor child growth and progress.

By doing so, the app will facilitate teacher progression and enable early intervention, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to succeed.

Early childhood education is critical for the future success of children, and research shows that those who do not have access to adequate ECD are more likely to struggle academically and have lower earning potential as adults. Unfortunately, many ECD centres in under-resourced communities are not able to employ qualified practitioners, which can result in subpar early learning programmes.

To address this challenge, ATB has developed an innovative and comprehensive ECD curriculum that is designed to meet the developmental needs of children aged one to six years. The curriculum can be implemented by ECD practitioners who have little or no formal ECD training.

The BambaLearn App will provide an online assessment centre to monitor student and teacher progression and a data-free online screening tool assessment for children, which will enable teachers to identify areas where children need additional support.

The impact of ATB’s initiative is significant. Currently, 800 upskilled practitioners working in 200 Early Learning Centres in disadvantaged communities and underprivileged rural areas are providing a solid foundation for 10 000 children. The long-term vision is to standardise the ECD curriculum throughout South Africa to ensure that no child is left behind in terms of education, leading to equal opportunity for all children in the country.

The ATB programme readily collaborates with government and private sectors. The BambaLearn App is an example of how edtech solutions can be used to improve the quality of education in under-resourced communities. By leveraging technology, ATB is bridging the digital divide and ensuring that children have access to quality education, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status.

Afrika Tikkun Bambanani believes that investing in ECD can lead to better school readiness, improved academic achievement, higher earning potential, and better health outcomes in adulthood. A nurturing and supportive early childhood environment can also promote positive social-emotional skills and behaviours, which can lead to stronger relationships and increased well-being throughout life.

ATB’s initiative is an excellent example of how technology can be used to improve the lives of individuals and communities, and we look forward to seeing the impact of the BambaLearn App on early childhood education in South Africa.

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