EdTech Mondays to Discuss Blended Learning in Ethiopia

In its upcoming episode, EdTech Mondays, a radio program dedicated to exploring the crossroads of education and technology, is shifting its focus toward accelerating blended learning in Ethiopia.

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The show, produced by the Mastercard Foundation in collaboration with Shega Media and Technology, aims to facilitate critical conversations and bring together key stakeholders in the field of education.

Blended learning, an approach combining innovative teaching techniques with digital technology, can potentially increase learners’ interest and improve teaching and learning outcomes. With millions of young learners in Ethiopia lacking access to quality and affordable education, EdTech is seen as a blueprint for increasing educational opportunities.

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The previous episode of EdTech Mondays focused on widening access to ICT infrastructure and connectivity for education. One of the challenges identified during that episode was the lack of engagement with teachers and other stakeholders to gather appropriate feedback and input. Addressing this issue is crucial for the successful implementation of blended learning.

Research has shown that when properly facilitated, blended learning transforms teachers’ pedagogical approaches and leads to better learning outcomes. It provides opportunities for individualized learning, enabling teachers to dedicate more time to small groups and individuals. Additionally, it allows for continued learning in virtual environments, which is particularly important during emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

To delve into the topic of blended learning in Ethiopia, the upcoming episode of EdTech Mondays will feature a panel discussion moderated by Rediet Meshesha, a journalist, producer, and host of the TV program “Cybergna.” The panel will consist of three experts from the education and technology sectors: Eyuel Tibebu, a business consultant; Teshager Amare, Co-founder at YeHulum Technologies and Head of Operations at 1888 E.C; and Yospeh Francis, a teacher and IT consultant.

During the show, key questions will guide the conversation on the implementation and acceleration of blended learning in Ethiopia. The discussion will focus on the approaches taken by teachers in integrating blended learning, as well as the challenges faced by EdTech startups developing educational solutions in the country.

Additionally, the panelists will explore the involvement of teachers in the development process and address concerns regarding the suitability of blended learning tools and the need for content and solutions that are not overly reliant on the Internet. Furthermore, the show will include a short interview or sound bite recorded with one innovator, providing insights from the frontlines of education in Ethiopia.

The episode will air on Monday, June 26, 2023, at 8:10 pm EAT. Listeners can tune in to Fana FM 98.1 and ten other affiliated FM radio stations nationwide.

Launched in Ethiopia in October 2022, EdTech Mondays serves as a platform for engaging dialogue, stimulating innovation in education, and setting the path toward a more promising future for Ethiopian learners.

A comprehensive, continent-wide conversation on EdTech unfolds monthly across various platforms. The primary discussion, setting the subject and tone for each month, is broadcast on CNBC Africa and the Mastercard Foundation’s Young Africa Works Facebook page, extending its reach across Africa.

Following the monthly Africa theme, Mastercard Foundation offices in Ethiopia, Rwanda, Kenya, Ghana, Uganda, and Nigeria disseminate the discussions with the local context, experts, nuances, and case studies in collaboration with local EdTech support organizations.