ASANKA

ASANKA stands as an innovative solution for foundational learners focused on K-8 and K-12 educational curriculums but at heart, ASANKA is an effective Digital Educational Content Deployment tool for Individualized Learning Enhancement. Its versatility and functionality are tailored to meet the unique needs of learners, offering a comprehensive offline learning management system.

In addition to its offline capabilities, ASANKA boasts two powerful features: the ASANKA Cloud Account (ACA) and the ASANKA Store. The ACA provides funders or administrators with a centralized platform to manage learning content on the device. Through ACA, administrators can curate and update educational materials, ensuring relevance and up-to-date content. Moreover, ACA offers analytical reports on learner progress, enabling educators to track performance and tailor instruction accordingly.

The ASANKA Store serves as an online marketplace where local publishers can exchange educational products. This platform facilitates collaboration and knowledge sharing within the education community, promoting diversity and inclusion in educational materials.

ASANKA's portability and ease of use make it an ideal solution for K-8 education projects. It accommodates 30 users simultaneously and over 500 user login details, allowing multiple learners to access resources simultaneously. Users can connect to the device within a 100-meter radius using any WiFi-enabled device. Furthermore, ASANKA can be powered by a simple power bank, eliminating the need for constant electricity access.

ASANKA offers a multiplicity of content formats, including e-books, videos, audio, interactive games, quizzes, and other relevant digital educational content. This diversity caters to different learning styles and preferences, enhancing the educational experience for all learners.

Its user-friendly interface and personalized learning capabilities ensure an optimal learning experience. Learners can access a range of educational materials tailored to their individual needs and pace. ASANKA employs AI solutions to adapt content, ensuring effective learning outcomes.

In summary, ASANKA represents a transformative approach to education, breaking barriers and empowering learners to reach their full potential. Its offline capabilities, personalized learning features, and diverse content formats make it a valuable tool in bridging the digital divide and fostering equitable access to education.

For more information and updates, please visit www.myasanka.com. Demo Vidoe:

The ASANKA solution, with its Analytical-enabled assessment capabilities, is uniquely positioned to address the needs of Black, Latino, and low-income students, as well as other priority learners, who face barriers to educational opportunity. Here's how ASANKA can address these challenges:

Access to Reliable Internet and Computers: ASANKA operates offline, eliminating the need for reliable Internet access. This is crucial for students who may not have consistent internet connectivity at home or in their communities or at school. Additionally, ASANKA's portability allows it to be used with any WiFi-enabled device, including smartphones, laptops, and tablets, providing flexibility and accessibility to students without access to dedicated computers.

Less Time with Teachers and Peers: ASANKA's Analytical-enabled assessment feature enables personalized learning experiences tailored to each student's needs. This means that students can receive targeted instruction and support even when they have limited time with teachers and peers. The adaptive learning paths provided by ASANKA ensure that students can progress at their own pace and receive additional support as needed, regardless of their time constraints.

Inadequate Language Resources: ASANKA offers a diverse range of educational content in multiple formats, including e-books, videos, audio, interactive games, and quizzes. This caters to students from diverse linguistic backgrounds and provides access to educational materials in their preferred language. Additionally, ASANKA's meticulously selected language software can assist students in enhancing their language skills through interactive exercises and assessments that they can undertake independently, without requiring any external assistance.

We strive to maintain a multi-national team that is diverse in age, gender, religion, creed, physical ability and experience. It is this diversity that we feel gives TECHAiDE its strength and ability to out-compete in the marketplace. It’s the reason we succeed where others do not.

Kafui A. Prebbie is an Education and ICT for Development expert who has worked for several years developing and applying technology and education solutions - especially within rural settings in Africa. Kafui’s work as an ICT and Education consultant both locally and internationally

has seen him work for several clients and collaborators including the Commonwealth of Learning, Canada; Campaign for Girls Education (CAMFED), UK; World Education International, USA and Ghana; Plan International, Ghana; International Institute for Communications and Development, Netherlands; EDIFY, USA; Wireless Africa Project, South Africa; DelPHE Project funded by British Council Ghana; European Union FP7 funded Digital World Forum Project; and the Ghana Aids Commission under the Office of the President of Ghana, among others.

Kafui trained as a Project Manager and managed many projects including the Technology component of the USAID Funded Education project - the Transition and Persistence Project implemented by Plan Ghana in 13 Districts in Ghana. He has trained and spoken at different local and international events in Brussels, Egypt, Ghana, India, London, Nigeria, Paris, Sierra Leone, Spain, South Africa, Switzerland, USA and including the TEDEx Harambe event.

Kafui Prebbie, MBI, CEO

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kafuiprebbie/ 

FJ Cava, MBA, COO

https://www.linkedin.com/in/fjcava/

TECHAiDE's Impact Report (TECHAiDE Impact) highlights testing of 4 pivotal initiatives aimed at bridging the digital divide and enhancing educational outcomes. Notably, ASANKA, an offline learning system, has been deployed in 4 countries, including Ghana, the Gambia, Haiti, and Liberia, with over 500 devices across 175 locations. Within 3 years, there's been a significant 51% increase in student performance and a 56.2% rise in female enrollment. The research follows the IRIS+ system. ASANKA V10, the latest iteration, features the ASANKA Cloud Account and Store, enhancing user experience. Customizability is a key feature, supported by a dedicated team.

We are yet to start any full operation in the US but have an ongoing discussion with The University of Colorado Denver (UCD) where we propose to work with the Colorado Department of Corrections (CDOC) to upgrade the educational learning spaces used by our incarcerated students.

Find below a summary of the Project Document.
The University of Colorado Denver (UCD) and TECHAiDE propose to work with the Colorado Department of Corrections (CDOC) to upgrade the educational learning spaces used by our incarcerated students. We propose to install state-of-the-art learning technologies and video conferencing tools in select CDOC facilities. To support our incarcerated learners, UCD teachers, and CDOC staff in using these learning spaces, we propose to run technical-literacy workshops for all stakeholders. We envision a long-term partnership built around the principles of sustainability, accountability, and continual enrichment. We propose to launch a one-year pilot program at the Skyline facility. Based on the evidence accrued from that pilot program, we will then expand our partnership to additional facilities. All proposals included herein will be fully funded by TECHAiDE and UCD.

ASANKA, an offline Learning Management System (LMS), tackles educational challenges by connecting offline learners to local content, addressing Curriculum & Content Distribution, Evidence-based Decision Making, and Human Resource Management. With low-cost, durable devices, ASANKA shares content via wifi without internet, gathering analytics for informed decisions and transparent insights. ASANKA's platform offers user management, analytics, and diverse learning formats, fostering self-directed learning and instructor-led sessions. Unique features include Practical Resources and Academic Games. ASANKA is mobile-responsive, compliant, and supports multimedia, interactivity, and gamification. Its innovative approach could address performance disparities among Black and Latino students in the US, catalyzing positive impacts and reshaping the educational landscape.

Regarding AI capabilities, ASANKA currently lacks full AI functionality due to its offline nature. However, it utilizes Machine Learning to assess students' progress and provide tailored recommendations. If a student encounters difficulties, ASANKA dynamically adjusts by suggesting additional learning materials or revisiting relevant sections to reinforce understanding. While not traditional AI, this approach effectively enhances personalized learning experiences and addresses individual learning needs within ASANKA's current framework. Additionally, due to its hybrid internet access nature, ASANKA is well-equipped with the capacity to deploy other EdTech AI solutions in the future. Which is the next upgrade phase we are currently working on. 

To demonstrate the effectiveness of our technology, ASANKA, particularly in the context of Pre-K-8 learning assessments, we rely on a combination of empirical evidence and external validation. Here's how we know that our technology works:

Media Coverage and Interviews: Voice of America (VOA) covered a story about the impact of ASANKA on learners' lives, featuring an interview with our CEO, Mr. Kafui Prebbie. This media coverage provides real-life examples and testimonials showcasing ASANKA's effectiveness in enhancing learning experiences. Link to VOA ASANKA Impact Story

Vacation Classes for Foundational Learning: TECHAiDE organizes vacation classes tailored for private studies, primarily focusing on K-8 and K-12 students. These classes serve as a practical application of ASANKA in educational settings, providing tangible evidence of its efficacy in improving foundational learning. Link to TECHAiDE Vacation Classes

EdTech Partnership with AIRTAD: Since 2012, TECHAiDE has been a Prime EdTech partner for the Annual Impact Roundtable Discussion (AIRTAD). This long-standing partnership signifies recognition and endorsement from educational experts and institutions, validating ASANKA's effectiveness through collaborative efforts. Link to TECHAiDE AIRTAD Partnership

AIRTAD Events and Coverage: AIRTAD events, including AIRTAD 2022, AIRTAD 2023, and AIRTAD 2024, have been extensively covered and documented. These events provide platforms for discussing educational innovations like ASANKA, with outputs such as articles, presentations, and discussions offering insights into its impact on Pre-K-8 learning assessments. [Links to AIRTAD Coverage: AIRTAD 2022, AIRTAD 2023, AIRTAD 2024]

Program Overview: Videos from AIRTAD programs offer visual evidence of ASANKA's functionality and user interface in operation. These recordings provide firsthand glimpses into how ASANKA is utilized in educational settings, demonstrating its effectiveness in facilitating learning experiences for Pre-K-8 students. Link to AIRTAD YouTube Program

By leveraging diverse forms of evidence, including media coverage, partnerships, and program recordings, we demonstrate the tangible impact of ASANKA in improving learning outcomes for Pre-K-8 students. Additionally, ongoing evaluations, user feedback, and academic research further validate its effectiveness and inform continuous improvements to our technology.

To address these goals, we have taken several actions:

1. Understanding Diverse Needs: We prioritize understanding the unique challenges and barriers faced by learners from diverse backgrounds. Through extensive research, consultations with educators, and community engagement, we ensure that ASANKA's features and content are tailored to meet the needs of all learners, including those historically marginalized or underserved.

2. Combating Algorithmic Bias: We are committed to combating algorithmic bias in ASANKA's development and deployment processes. Our team undergoes rigorous training and education on bias detection and mitigation techniques. We continuously review and assess our algorithms to identify and address any biases that may arise, particularly those that could perpetuate inequalities or reinforce systemic barriers.

3. Monitoring and Avoiding Bias: Our development and deployment processes include robust monitoring mechanisms to detect and address bias, discrimination, and other harmful impacts. We conduct regular audits of our AI systems, analyzing data inputs, outputs, and user interactions to identify and mitigate biases proactively. Additionally, we engage diverse stakeholders, including educators, community leaders, and learners themselves, in ongoing discussions and feedback loops to ensure that ASANKA remains equitable and inclusive.

4. Promoting Safe Learning Environments: ASANKA provides a safe and controlled learning environment for students, particularly in settings where access to traditional classrooms or computer labs may be limited. By leveraging its connectivity features, learners can access educational content privately and securely, away from the open nature of the internet and potential exposure to harmful information. ASANKA's ability to connect within a radius of over 500 meters in a local network ensures that students can learn safely and confidently, regardless of their physical location.

20 Full-time Staff, 1 Part-time and 3 Contract

TECHAiDE is poised and ready for pilot deployment within the next year. Our solution, ASANKA, has been meticulously developed and tested, and we have an experienced team prepared to facilitate successful pilot implementations in classrooms with priority learners.

Our plan for pilot readiness includes:

1. Deployment Strategy: We will leverage our existing networks and partnerships with schools, educational institutions, and government agencies to identify pilot locations and secure necessary permissions for implementation.

2. Training and Support: Our team will provide comprehensive training and support to educators, administrators, and IT personnel involved in the pilot program. This includes training on how to use ASANKA effectively, troubleshooting technical issues, and integrating ASANKA into existing curricula.

3. Monitoring and Evaluation: We will establish robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track the progress and impact of the pilot program. This includes collecting data on student engagement, learning outcomes, and user satisfaction to assess the effectiveness of ASANKA in meeting the needs of priority learners.

4. Feedback Mechanisms: We will actively seek feedback from teachers, students, and other stakeholders involved in the pilot program to identify areas for improvement and refinement. This feedback will inform iterative updates to ASANKA to enhance its usability and effectiveness.

In terms of evidence that we are on track to meet our goals, we can provide:

1. Previous Successes: TECHAiDE has a proven track record of successfully implementing educational initiatives in diverse settings, including schools in Ghana and other African countries.

2. Pilot Readiness: We have conducted thorough testing and validation of ASANKA in real-world educational environments, ensuring that it is pilot-ready and capable of delivering meaningful impact.

3. Team Expertise: Our team consists of experienced educators, technologists, and project managers who bring a wealth of expertise and knowledge to the table, ensuring the smooth execution of pilot deployments.

Building upon our commitment to accessibility and affordability, TECHAiDE envisions significant expansion and impact over the next five years. Our goal is to extend our reach to 10 additional countries across Africa and the Caribbean region, ensuring that every school has access to a homegrown EdTech solution through the ASANKA Device at no cost. By democratizing access to educational content and distribution channels, we aim to foster effective learning experiences for students in underserved communities.

Central to our expansion strategy is the establishment of strategic partnerships with Ministries of Education in various countries and international donor funders. These partnerships will enable us to scale our impact rapidly and sustainably, reaching more learners and communities in need.

Moreover, our focus extends beyond traditional classroom settings. We are dedicated to connecting the unconnected in underserved communities and rural areas, particularly prioritizing youth development, women's empowerment, and bridging the gender digital divide. Through the deployment of free and user-friendly digital training and educational content, accessible via the ASANKA Device, we aim to provide transformative opportunities for individuals to acquire valuable skills and knowledge, ultimately driving socio-economic development and empowerment.

TECHAiDE is deeply committed to making a meaningful impact in the field of education, particularly in underserved communities. Our journey began with a simple yet powerful vision: to bridge the digital literacy gap in Ghana and beyond. As an organization rooted in Ghana, we have seen firsthand the transformative power of education and technology in empowering individuals and communities.

Our CEO, Mr. Kafui Prebbie, started his career as an ICT teacher, driven by a passion for equipping young minds with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the digital age. Through his advocacy and tireless efforts, TECHAiDE has evolved into a renowned organization making a significant impact across Africa.

We believe that partnerships with organizations like Solve and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation can provide invaluable support in overcoming them.

Focus Specifically, 

1. Technical Support: We seek technical expertise and guidance to further develop and refine our solutions, ensuring they are robust, scalable, and tailored to the needs of diverse learners.

2. Financial Assistance: Funding opportunities will enable us to accelerate our efforts, invest in research and development, and scale our impact to reach more learners in Ghana and beyond.