February 8, 2024
The Aid for Rural Education Access Initiative (AREAi) has achieved success in the 2023 UNLEASH Rwanda Dragons’ Den Pitch for FastTrack.
The initiative, led by Executive Director Prince Gideon Olanrewaju, secured the Mastercard Foundation Prize of $5000 after a 6-month incubation programme.
AREAi’s FastTrack solution, utilizing three learning approaches, garnered attention for its innovative approach to fostering literacy and numeracy skills.
Olanrewaju stated that the funds would be invested in professional development and expanding program coverage to benefit 200 more individuals.
FastTrack, a technology-enabled skills development program, focuses on foundational literacy and numeracy for out-of-school refugee children.
Currently reaching over 4000 children, the program’s success lies in its tailored teaching approach, proving cost-effective in improving basic skills.
As a UNLEASH Plus Innovation Lab winner, AREAi received a $5000 grant, affirming FastTrack’s global recognition.
The organization plans to expand into seven additional states in Nigeria and three neighbouring countries within the next 12 months.
The Executive Director, Olanrewaju, emphasized the transformative potential of their impact beyond borders, highlighting their commitment to addressing educational gaps in Africa. UNLEASH Plus, a 6-month incubation program, supports early-stage social entrepreneurs with promising ideas and teams, providing essential resources for their solutions.
