ChemCheemi

In Tanzania, many children struggle with basic math skills by the age of 10, despite their importance for further learning. Research shows that in Standard 3, 8 out of 10 children cannot do basic mathematics. Many schools lack qualified math teachers, and passing the final mathematics exam in Tanzania has been a major challenge, with only 2 or fewer out of 10 form II and IV students passing the exam from 2015 to 2022. These challenges stem from a lack of competent math teachers and limited parental involvement in childhood learning. In 2021, TAMISEMI announced that approximately 400 schools in Tanzania had never had a mathematics teacher present in their classrooms.

Globally, approximately 250 million children are out of school, and many more lack access to quality learning materials or disability-adapted infrastructure. This issue disproportionately affects marginalized communities and exacerbates existing inequities in education. For example, according to UNESCO, approximately 617 million children and adolescents worldwide are not achieving minimum proficiency levels in reading and mathematics. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated educational disparities, with millions of children facing disruptions to their learning due to school closures and limited access to remote learning resources. 

In the communities we are working in, as well as globally, the scale of the problem is significant. Many children face barriers to accessing quality education due to factors such as poverty, conflict, disability, or lack of inclusive learning environments. These challenges hinder their ability to thrive academically and socially, limiting their future opportunities.

Our solution, ChemCheemi, leverages technology to address equity gaps in learning by providing a screen-free audio learning device designed to deliver interactive and personalized educational content to children. By promoting focused learning and healthy screen habits, ChemCheemi aims to ensure that all children, including those affected by poverty or displacement, have access to quality educational experiences. Additionally, our inclusive design approach ensures engagement and better outcomes for learners with disabilities and neurodivergent learners, while benefiting all learners.

ChemCheemi, is a screen-free audio learning device designed to revolutionize the way children learn by providing interactive and personalized educational audio content. It consists of two main components: the ChemPlayer device and the ChemCards.

The ChemPlayer device is a compact and portable audio player equipped with advanced technology to deliver afro-centered and high-quality audio content. It features a user-friendly interface and tactile button for easy navigation. The device can be charged via USB and has a headphone jack for individual use.

The heart of ChemCheemi lies in its unique ChemCards, which are physical flashcards embedded with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology. Each ChemCard is graphically rich and represents a specific educational topic, such as literacy, numeracy, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), and social-emotional learning. When a child taps a ChemCard on the ChemPlayer device, it instantly triggers corresponding audio content or activity related to that topic. This content and activities includes stories, songs, quizzes, and interactive games designed to engage and educate children aged 3-14.

ChemCheem uses AI (Artificial Intelligence) to analyze user data and preferences, enabling personalized learning experiences tailored to each child's interests and learning needs. Parents and educators can also track their child's progress and performance through the ChemApp, which provides valuable insights and feedback.

In summary, ChemCheem harnesses the power of technology to provide children with an immersive and interactive learning experience that promotes curiosity, engagement, and academic success. By combining audio-based learning with tactile interaction, ChemCheem offers a unique solution to enhance children's education in a screen-free environment.

The target population for ChemCheemi comprises children aged 3-14, particularly those in underserved communities facing challenges in accessing quality education. These children often lack access to adequate learning materials, face language barriers, and may struggle with traditional teaching methods that do not cater to their diverse learning styles and needs.

Currently, many children, especially those in marginalized communities, lack access to educational resources that cater to their individual learning preferences and needs. Traditional educational systems often rely heavily on textbooks and classroom instruction, which may not effectively engage all students, particularly those with disabilities or neurodiverse learning profiles. Additionally, factors such as poverty, displacement, and disability can further exacerbate their educational disadvantages.

ChemCheemi addresses the needs of these underserved children by providing an innovative and inclusive learning solution that is accessible, engaging, and personalized. By leveraging technology, ChemCheemi offers audio-based educational content that is interactive, immersive, and tailored to individual learning styles. This approach ensures that all children, regardless of their background or ability, have access to high-quality educational materials that meet their unique learning needs.

Moreover, ChemCheemi's use of tactile ChemCards and AI-driven personalization enables children to learn at their own pace and in their preferred format, fostering a sense of autonomy and confidence in their learning journey. By empowering children to explore and engage with educational content in a screen-free environment, ChemCheemi aims to bridge the gap in learning outcomes and provide equal opportunities for all children to thrive academically.

ChemCheemi's inclusive design ensures that it can benefit all children, including those with disabilities or neurodiverse learning needs. By providing audio-based content and tactile interaction, ChemCheemi accommodates diverse learning styles and promotes inclusive learning environments where every child can thrive.

ChemChemi team is founder-led diverse expertise with a strong passion for education. It is a team that is customer-centric and committed to delivering high-quality educational products, content, and experiences, aiming for a positive and measurable impact on children's learning and development. The background experiences with startups and readiness to improve drive the founding team to make ChemChem a world-class business in Africa.

I, Kelvin Paul, the founder and CEO, is an enthusiastic society change-maker with 6 years of experience in edutech focusing on leveraging technology to drive societal change and innovation in Tanzania's education sector. My journey begun at MITz Group Company Limited as a co-founder and CTO in 2017, where I spearheaded the innovation of MITz KITS, portable and cost-effective science kits, to enhance competency-based learning in STEM subjects across primary and secondary schools which reached 8000+ students in Tanzania, supported by Tanzania’s Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, the Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH), the Human Development Innovation Fund (HDIF), and Tanzania’s Small Industries Development Organization (SIDO). At MITz Group, I worked closely with students, teachers and Parents in building a solution that is relevant and affordable.

It has been two years since I joined Technovation global as a Technovation Girls Chapter Ambassador in Tanzania, empowering young girls in STEM and entrepreneurship by leveraging block-based coding. Here I work closely with teachers and students from underserved communities in Tanzania, to motivate and inspire girls aged 8-18 to practice technology and entrepreneurship. 

Michael Kimollo, a business strategy lead, has over 5 years of experience in building tech-based products for his previous startup and for other organizations. His skills in business development, strategic planning, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement are vital for any company. He has worked with different initiatives in and out of Tanzania, and together with his exposure and network from the Mandela Washington Fellowship will be needed at ChemChemi for a long time. 

And Robert Chacha, as a CTO his skills in understanding and interpreting customers' requirements are unbelievable, and his passion for pioneering hardware programming and product development in Tanzania makes him a perfect fit for ChemChemi product development leadership. He is an electronics designing, IoT, and AI hobbyist and envisions turning that hobby into a measurable impact through ChemChemi, he has 4 years in developing products for different organizations and his previous IoT-based electric submitters designing startup.

We have developed three iterations of prototypes. The initial prototype had a single feature: tap and listen. This version was tested by five families. The second iteration added an interactive gaming feature, allowing kids to respond to questions. It was tested by five families and one preschool class. The current version is being utilized by 31 beneficiaries. Following three rounds of prototype testing, we received 39 preorders and gathered feedback from 103 parents and teachers. This feedback was instrumental in designing our first mass production batch for pilot.

We are applying to Solve because we recognize the immense value and support their platform provides to social innovators like us. Specifically, we believe Solve can help us overcome several key barriers that currently hinder the advancement and scalability of our solution in addressing equity gaps in learning. These barriers include;

1. Technical Expertise: As a technology-driven solution, we require specialized technical expertise to continuously enhance and optimize our platform. Solve's network of experts and partners can offer invaluable technical guidance, mentorship, and support to help us overcome technical challenges, refine our solution, and stay at the forefront of innovation in education technology.

2. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Navigating legal and regulatory frameworks, particularly in diverse geographical contexts, can be complex and time-consuming. Solve can connect us with legal experts and advisors who can provide guidance on compliance issues, intellectual property protection especially in Content acquisitions, and other legal considerations, ensuring that we operate ethically and effectively in all our target regions.

3. Financial Barriers: While we have made significant progress in developing  our solution, securing sufficient funding to scale our operations and reach more underserved communities remains a challenge. We have two schools special for kids with disabilities that are waiting hopping to benefit from our pilot phase, and currently we are behind schedule for that pilot due to lack of enough fund to start the first mass production batch. Solve's financial support, including the $10,000 prize and access to additional funding opportunities, will provide critical resources to fuel our growth and sustainability.

4. Cultural Sensitivity and Adaptation: To effectively address equity gaps in learning, our solution must be culturally sensitive and adaptable to the diverse needs and contexts of the communities we serve. Solve's emphasis on community-driven innovation and local partnerships can help us gain insights into cultural nuances, preferences, and sensitivities, enabling us to tailor our solution more effectively and promote inclusivity and acceptance.

5. Market Access and Partnerships: Establishing strategic partnerships and accessing new markets are critical for scaling our impact and reaching a wider audience. Solve's extensive network of partners, investors, and stakeholders provides valuable opportunities for collaboration, market validation, and access to distribution channels, helping us expand our reach and maximize our social impact.

Overall, we believe that Solve's comprehensive support ecosystem, encompassing financial, technical, legal, cultural, and market-related assistance, aligns closely with our needs and aspirations as a social innovation venture. By leveraging Solve's platform and resources, we are confident that we can overcome these barriers and accelerate the adoption and impact of our solution, ultimately transforming the landscape of education equity worldwide.

Our solution, ChemCheemi, is innovative in several key ways that set it apart from traditional approaches to addressing equity gaps in learning:

1. Screen-Free Learning Experience: ChemCheemi offers a unique screen-free audio learning experience, leveraging technology to provide interactive educational content without relying on screens. By prioritizing auditory and tactile engagement, our solution promotes focused learning, reduces screen time, and accommodates diverse learning styles, ensuring that all children, including those with limited access to technology or with disabilities, can benefit from high-quality educational experiences.

2. Interactive Flash Cards and Tactile Interaction: We have developed interactive ChemCards that children can tap to access audio content, games, and quizzes on the ChemCheemi player. This tactile interaction enhances engagement and facilitates exploration, allowing children to learn through hands-on exploration and play. By combining auditory and tactile stimuli, our solution fosters multisensory learning experiences that are proven to enhance retention and comprehension.

3. Personalized Learning and Adaptive Technology: ChemCheemi utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze user data and tailor educational content to the individual needs and preferences of each child. Through continuous assessment and adaptive technology, our solution ensures that learning experiences are personalized, relevant, and engaging, enabling children to progress at their own pace and address specific learning gaps or challenges.

4. Inclusive Design and Accessibility: We have integrated inclusive design principles into the development of ChemCheemi, ensuring that our solution is accessible to all learners, including those with disabilities and neurodiverse learners. Braille-enabled ChemCards, audio descriptions, and customizable settings accommodate diverse needs and promote inclusivity, empowering every child to participate and succeed in their educational journey.

5. Community Engagement and Partnerships: ChemCheemi is more than just a product—it's a catalyst for broader positive impacts in the education space. By partnering with schools, educators, and local communities, we are building a collaborative ecosystem focused on improving learning outcomes and promoting equity in education. Through shared resources, best practices, and collective action, our solution has the potential to drive systemic change and transform the market landscape by prioritizing the needs and aspirations of learners and communities.

ChemCheemi represents a paradigm shift in how we approach education, offering a holistic, inclusive, and personalized learning experience that empowers children to unlock their full potential. By catalyzing broader positive impacts and fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, our solution has the potential to revolutionize the education market and pave the way for a more equitable and inclusive future for all learners.

Here's a simplified explanation of our theory of change for ChemCheemi:

1. Activities: ChemCheemi provides a screen-free audio learning experience for children, utilizing interactive ChemCards and adaptive technology to deliver personalized educational content.

2. Outputs: Through ChemCheemi, children engage with interactive audio content, games, and quizzes on a regular basis. They have access to a wide range of educational materials tailored to their individual needs and preferences.

3. Immediate Outcomes:

   • Increased Engagement: Children are more actively engaged in learning activities due to the multisensory and interactive nature of ChemCheemi.
   • Improved Retention: The combination of auditory and tactile stimuli enhances retention and comprehension, leading to better learning outcomes.
   • Personalized Learning: ChemCheemi's adaptive technology tailors educational content to the specific needs and preferences of each child, accommodating diverse learning styles and abilities.

4. Longer-Term Outcomes:

   • Enhanced Learning Outcomes: By promoting active engagement, retention, and personalized learning, ChemCheemi contributes to improved academic performance and literacy skills among children.
   • Increased Access to Education: ChemCheemi addresses equity gaps in learning by providing accessible and inclusive educational experiences for all children, including those with disabilities or limited access to technology.
   • Empowerment and Agency: Through personalized learning experiences, children develop a sense of ownership and agency over their education, empowering them to take charge of their learning journey and pursue their goals with confidence.

Evidence supporting our theory of change includes:

• Research on multisensory learning approaches and their impact on student engagement and retention.
• Feedback from pilot studies and user testing demonstrating increased interest and motivation among children using ChemCheemi.
• Testimonials and case studies from parents, educators, and community members highlighting the positive effects of ChemCheemi on children's learning outcomes and access to education.

Overall, we expect ChemCheemi to have a transformative impact on children's learning experiences, empowering them to thrive academically and unlocking their full potential for success.

Our impact goals for ChemCheemi are centered around addressing equity gaps in learning and improving educational outcomes for children, particularly those affected by poverty, displacement, disabilities, or limited access to quality education. We aim to achieve the following impact goals:

1. Increased Access to Quality Education: Ensure that all children, regardless of their background or circumstances, have access to high-quality educational resources and experiences.

2. Improved Learning Outcomes: Enhance academic performance, literacy skills, and critical thinking abilities among children using ChemCheemi, leading to measurable improvements in learning outcomes.

3. Inclusive Learning Environment: Foster an inclusive learning environment where children with disabilities or neurodiverse learners feel empowered and supported to engage actively in the learning process.

4. Empowerment and Agency: Empower children to take ownership of their learning journey, build confidence, and develop a lifelong love for learning.

To measure our progress towards these impact goals, we are tracking several key indicators:

• User Engagement Metrics: Monitoring the frequency and duration of children's interactions with ChemCheemi to assess overall engagement levels.
• Learning Outcomes Assessments: Conducting periodic assessments to evaluate changes in academic performance, literacy skills, and critical thinking abilities among ChemCheemi users.
• User Feedback and Testimonials: Collecting feedback from parents, educators, and children themselves to gauge satisfaction levels and identify areas for improvement.
• Inclusion Metrics: Assessing the extent to which ChemCheemi is accessible and inclusive for children with disabilities or diverse learning needs, using feedback from users and accessibility assessments.

By tracking these indicators and regularly evaluating our progress, we aim to ensure that ChemCheemi is making a meaningful and measurable impact on the lives of children and communities we serve.

ChemCheemi is powered by a combination of innovative technologies designed to deliver engaging and effective learning experiences to children. The core technologies that drive our solution include:

1. ChemCards and RFID Technology: ChemCards are interactive flashcards embedded with RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology. Each ChemCard is uniquely tagged and corresponds to specific audio content on the ChemCheemi platform. When a child taps a ChemCard on the ChemPlayer device, it triggers the playback of associated audio content, creating a hands-on learning experience.

2. Internet of Things (IoT) Connectivity: ChemCheemi utilizes IoT connectivity to enable features such as over-the-air firmware updates, personalized learning experiences, and parental monitoring via the ChemApp. This connectivity allows for seamless integration with digital networks and provides opportunities for remote management and updates.

3. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Personalization: Our solution incorporates AI algorithms to analyze user data and preferences, personalize learning experiences, and provide targeted recommendations for parents and educators. By leveraging AI, ChemCheemi adapts to the unique needs and learning styles of each child, maximizing engagement and learning outcomes.

By harnessing these cutting-edge technologies, ChemCheemi revolutionizes the way children access and engage with educational content, fostering curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning skills.

6 People work on the solution.

• 2 people work full-time
• 4 people work part-time

As a founder I have been working on the solution for 2 years since its inception, but as a team it is a year now since we joined and started working on it.

At ChemCheemi, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace environment where all team members feel welcomed, respected, supported, and valued. Our approach to diversity and inclusion is embedded in our organizational culture and is reflected in our team composition, policies, and practices.

Diversity in our team: Our team comprises individuals from diverse backgrounds, including different genders, ethnicities, cultures, and professional experiences. We believe that diversity in brings unique perspectives, fosters innovation, and enhances decision-making processes. By having diverse voices at the table, we ensure that our solutions are inclusive and responsive to the needs of our target communities.

Goals for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: As part of our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we have started establishing specific goals to promote representation and create opportunities for individuals from underrepresented groups within our team. These goals include:

1. Increasing representation of women, minorities, and individuals from marginalized communities in leadership positions and across all levels of the organization.
2. Implementing equitable recruitment and hiring practices to attract diverse talent and minimize bias in the selection process.
3. Providing ongoing diversity and inclusion training for all team members to foster awareness, sensitivity, and cultural competence.
4. Creating pathways for career advancement and professional development opportunities for all staff members, regardless of background or identity.
5. Establishing employee resource groups and support networks to provide a platform for underrepresented groups to voice their perspectives and advocate for their needs.

Actions Taken: To ensure that we will achieve our diversity, equity, and inclusion goals, we have implemented several initiatives and practices, including:

1. Incubated and working with SIDO-TLED Hub - Mwanza, a diversity-focused organizations to expand our awareness in understanding how to conduct regular diversity audits and assessments to identify areas for improvement and track progress towards our diversity goals.
2. Planning to provide mentorship and sponsorship programs to support the career growth and advancement of underrepresented employees.
3. Cultivating a culture of belonging and respect through open communication, inclusive decision-making processes, and zero-tolerance for discrimination or harassment.
4. Encouraging employee feedback and participation in shaping our diversity and inclusion initiatives, ensuring that they are responsive to the evolving needs of our team.

By prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion, we strive to build a workplace where all team members can thrive, contribute their best talents, and make a meaningful impact on our mission to advance education and learning outcomes for all.

At ChemCheemi, our business model revolves around providing innovative educational solutions that empower children and educators in Africa with essential literacy, numeracy, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), and life skills. Our key customers and beneficiaries include children, parents, teachers, schools, and educational institutions across the continent.

Products and Services:

1. ChemPlayer: Our flagship product is the ChemPlayer, a screen-free educational device designed to engage children in interactive learning experiences. The ChemPlayer comes preloaded with a variety of audio-based content, including stories, songs, games, quizzes, and STEM activities, all aligned with educational standards and tailored to the African context.

2. ChemCards: Complementing the ChemPlayer, ChemCards are interactive flashcards that children can tap on the ChemPlayer to access specific learning modules and activities. These cards cover a wide range of topics, from literacy and numeracy to science and technology, providing hands-on learning opportunities.

3. ChemApp: The ChemApp is a mobile application that serves as a companion to the ChemPlayer, allowing parents and educators to track children's progress, customize learning experiences, and access additional resources and support materials.

How We Provide Value:

• Engaging Learning Experiences: We offer interactive and immersive learning experiences that captivate children's attention and promote active participation in the learning process.
• Curriculum Alignment: Our content is aligned with educational standards and curriculum requirements, ensuring that children acquire essential skills and knowledge needed for academic success.
• Accessibility: By leveraging audio-based technology, we make learning accessible to children of all abilities, including those with visual or learning disabilities.
• Parental Involvement: We empower parents to support their children's learning journey through the ChemApp, enabling them to monitor progress, reinforce learning at home, and stay connected with educators.
• Teacher Support: We provide educators with tools and resources to enhance teaching effectiveness, streamline classroom management, and cater to diverse learning needs.

Why Customers Want or Need Our Products:

• Educational Impact: Parents and educators seek effective and engaging learning solutions that can improve children's academic performance and foster a love for learning.
• Convenience: Our products offer a convenient way for parents to supplement classroom learning and engage children in productive screen-free activities at home.
• Holistic Development: With a focus on literacy, numeracy, STEM, and life skills, our solutions support holistic child development, preparing children for success in school and beyond.
• Inclusivity: We address the diverse learning needs of children, including those from underserved communities and children with disabilities, promoting inclusivity and equal access to quality education.

Overall, our business model is centered on delivering impactful educational solutions that address the unique needs and challenges facing African children and educators, driving positive learning outcomes and empowering future generations.

At ChemCheemi, we have developed a multi-faceted approach to ensure financial sustainability while maximizing our impact on education in Africa. Our plan encompasses diverse revenue streams, including sales of products and services, strategic partnerships, grants, and investment funding. Here's how we plan to generate revenue and evidence of our success so far:

1. Product Sales:

   • We generate revenue through the sale of our flagship products, including the ChemPlayer device, ChemCards, and accompanying educational materials.
   • By offering high-quality, engaging educational solutions, we attract customers who are willing to purchase our products to support their children's learning journey.

2. Subscription Model:

   • We plan to introduce a subscription-based model for access to premium content and features on the ChemApp. This recurring revenue stream will provide a stable source of income while offering added value to users.

3. Strategic Partnerships:

   • We seek partnerships with educational institutions, government agencies, NGOs, and corporate sponsors to co-develop and distribute educational content, expand our reach, and access additional funding opportunities.
   • By collaborating with like-minded organizations, we can leverage their expertise, resources, and networks to scale our impact and drive revenue growth.

4. Grants and Donations:

   • We actively pursue grants and donations from philanthropic organizations, impact investors, and government agencies that support education and innovation.

5. Investment Funding:

   • We plan to raise investment capital from venture capitalists, impact investors, and social impact funds to fuel our growth, expand our product offerings, and enter new markets.
   • We have participated in investment readiness programs and pitch competitions, gaining exposure to potential investors and laying the groundwork for future funding rounds.

Evidence of Success:

• To date, we have successfully launched a prototype test program in Mwanza, Tanzania, where we have received positive feedback from parents, educators, and children regarding the effectiveness and impact of our educational solutions.
• We have established a collaboration interest with two local schools and community organizations, to distribute ChemCheemi products and deliver educational programs.

• We have received recognition and business formalization and workspace support from reputable organizations, the Tanzania's Small Industries Development Organization and the Tanzania Startup Association.

Our comprehensive approach to revenue generation and evidence of early success position us for long-term financial sustainability as we continue to innovate and expand our reach in the education sector across Africa.