Creative Minds

Nigeria has the highest out of School children Nigeria faces significant challenges in providing a conducive learning environment for its children. These obstacles impact not only access to education but also the quality of learning. Let’s delve into the factors contributing to this situation:

Conflict and Displacement:

Boko Haram Conflict: Nigeria grapples with the Boko Haram insurgency, which has disrupted education in the northeastern region. Schools have been attacked, teachers killed, and students displaced, Banditry and Biafran Agitation: Other forms of conflict, such as banditry and Biafran agitation, further exacerbate the situation. These conflicts disrupt schools, displace families, and create an atmosphere of fear, according to the UNICEF 1 of 5 out of school children is in Nigeria, has total of 10.5 million. 

According to The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, about 10 to 12 million children are currently out of school in the country, study shows by the National Bureau of Statistics 90% of them are in the northern part of the County, due to the Boko Haram Crises.

Also, according to the UNICEF report 2021, there were 25 attacks on schools. 1,440 children were abducted, and 16 children killed.

In March 2021 to date no fewer 18 schools were closed in six northern states (Sokoto, Zamfara, Kano, Katsina, Niger, and Yobe) over the fear of attack and abduction of pupils and members of staff. The closure of schools in these states significantly contributed to learning losses and added to out of School children.

Inadequate Teachers:

Northern Nigeria’s Teacher Shortage: The northern states of Nigeria face a severe shortage of qualified teachers. In some cases, one teacher is responsible for educating up to 200 children in a single class. This overcrowding hinders effective teaching and learning.

Poverty:

Northern Nigeria’s Poverty: Poverty disproportionately affects northern Nigeria. Low-income families struggle to provide basic learning materials and resources for their children. Lack of access to textbooks, stationery, and technology impedes effective learning conducive environment. 

Overcrowding and Infrastructure Deficits:

Lack of Adequate School Buildings: Overcrowded classrooms hinder concentration and interaction. Many schools lack proper infrastructure, including classrooms, libraries, and sanitation facilities.

Trauma and Psychological Impact: 

Children exposed to violence and displacement suffer trauma, affecting their ability to learn. Teachers also face stress and fear, impacting their teaching effectiveness.

UNESCO’s Findings:

Conducive Environment Lacking: UNESCO’s research reveals that approximately one-third of Nigerian children do not attend school due to various environmental factors. These include overcrowding, trauma, teacher shortages, and inadequate infrastructure. 

by Creating a Conducive Learning Environment: Establishing a positive and supportive atmosphere within schools is crucial. 

Equipping Teachers with Necessary Support: Providing professional development, resources, and mentorship for teachers enhances their effectiveness in the classroom. Well-trained and motivated teachers play a pivotal role in students’ success. 

Advocating for Parents: Educating parents about the importance of education and involving them in their children’s learning journey is essential.

By implementing these strategies, we can work towards ensuring that Nigerian children have access to quality education and overcome the obstacles they encounter. 

Creative Minds we developed One-to-Teach-Ten Model is a grassroots initiative designed to address the educational challenges faced by out-of-school children in Nigeria. Our goal is to create a conducive learning environment and empower local communities through technology.

We developed web applications that uses AI, which identify children at risk of dropping out from the school or pacing challenges. It also identified the most vulnerable children in the community for selecting them into enrollment to our program. 

How Does It Work?

1. AI powered apps

a. Early warning system and outreach 

The apps identify and analyze students risks of dropping out, using attendance, school performance, ability to learn, behavioral patterns, then analyzed for trigger timely and necessary interventions. we achieved this by using predictive analytics to identify potential dropouts and notify our volunteers, teachers, parents, or community workers for targeted support.

b. Best enrollment and retention 

The apps powered by AI help us to identify the most vulnerable and traumatized children in the community, for successful enrollment to our program and retention, we achieved this by identify factors like, parents background, rent, shelter, ethnic, health, orphanage status.

c. Tested and enrolled successfully. 

We implemented the use of app in some communities, and it is successfully identified the children that are at risk of dropping out from the school, we have been taking major for granted support and their retention. 

Likewise, the app has been helping us, identified and selecting the most vulnerable and traumatized children in the community for successfully enrollment, which are now helping us to reduce the gaps of out of school children in Nigeria.

2. Volunteer Network:

We recruit passionate volunteers—teachers, tech specialists, and community leaders—from different angles in Nigeria, each state in northern Nigeria and Abuja has a team of 20 volunteers who share our vision Virtual Training and 

3. Collaboration:

We connect virtually using platforms like Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Google Classroom.

Our volunteers receive training on effective teaching methods, technology integration, and curriculum content.

4. Local Implementation:

We seek permission from government schools to use their infrastructure during evening hours.

Our volunteers teach primary school pupils using an adopted curriculum focused on English, Mathematics, ICT, and Civic Education.

5. One-to-Teach-Ten Approach:

Each volunteer teaches ten other volunteers within their locality, Knowledge spreads exponentially as volunteers pass on what they’ve learned.

6. Advocacy and Awareness:

We advocate for education through online platforms, calling on youth groups, society leaders, and parents.

Our battle cry: reinstate children in schools, especially girls.

7. Teacher Empowerment:

We provide ongoing training for teachers, emphasizing emerging technologies and effective classroom management.

Google tools enhance their teaching practices.

Technology Used:

• AI Powered apps: for identifying students that are risk of dropping out from the school for targeted support and selecting the most vulnerable and traumatized children for enrollment and retention. 
• Virtual Platforms: Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, Zoom

• Online Collaboration Tools: Google Classroom
• Educational Apps: Mobile apps for interactive learning
• Social Media: Advocacy and awareness campaigns

Our solution, Creative Minds uses One-to-Teach-Ten Model, directly serves two critical groups:

Out-of-School Children in Nigeria:

• Who They Are: These are children who, due to conflict, poverty, or other challenges, are not attending school regularly or have dropped out.
• Current Underserved Situation: Many of these children lack access to quality education, face trauma from displacement, and miss out on essential learning opportunities.

How Our Solution Addresses Their Needs:

• Access to Education: By utilizing government school infrastructure during evening hours, we create safe and conducive learning spaces for these children.
• Quality Teaching: Our trained volunteers ensure effective teaching, focusing on core subjects like English, Mathematics, ICT, and Civic Education.
• Empowerment: The One-to-Teach-Ten approach empowers local communities to take charge of education, fostering a sense of ownership and commitment

Teachers and Educators:

• Who They Are: Teachers in Nigeria, especially those in underserved areas, face challenges related to overcrowded classrooms, inadequate resources, and limited training.

Current Underserved Situation:

• Overcrowding: Many teachers handle large classes, compromising individual attention and effective teaching.
• Lack of Training: Insufficient training in emerging technologies and teaching methodologies hinders their effectiveness.

How Our Solution Addresses Their Needs:

• Training and Support: Our online training equips teachers with the latest teaching techniques, technology integration, and classroom management skills.
• Community of Practice: By connecting teachers virtually, we foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and professional growth.
• Impact Amplification: When teachers adopt our model, they become catalysts for positive change, impacting not just ten students but potentially hundreds.

Our Team and Community Centric Approach

As a team deeply committed to transforming education in Nigeria, we bring more than just technical expertise. Our strength lies in our proximity to the communities we serve, our shared experiences, and our unwavering dedication. Let me elaborate on how we are well-positioned to deliver this solution.

Community Roots:

Our team members hail from diverse backgrounds across Nigeria. We have lived, studied, and worked in both urban centers and rural communities.

We understand the nuances, cultural context, and challenges faced by local populations. Our proximity allows us to empathize with their struggles and aspirations.

Inclusive Decision-Making:

We believe in co-creation. Our solution design is not a top-down approach; it’s a collaborative effort.

We actively engage with community members, parents, teachers, and Pupils. Their input shapes our strategy, curriculum, and implementation.

Community Leaders as Advocates:

Our team includes community leaders who champion education. They bridge the gap between our initiative and the grassroots.

These leaders advocate for our cause, mobilize support, and ensure that our efforts align with community needs.

Local Context Sensitivity:

We recognize that each community has unique challenges. Our solution adapts to local realities.

Whether it’s addressing trauma, language barriers, or specific curriculum gaps, we tailor our approach to meet the community’s specific needs.

Feedback-Driven Iteration:

We maintain an open feedback loop. Regular interactions with parents, teachers, and students guide our decisions.

We listen, learn, and iterate. If a strategy isn’t working, we pivot based on community insights.

Gender and Inclusion Lens:

Our team includes strong female voices. We prioritize girls’ education and actively involve women in leadership roles.

We address gender disparities, ensuring that our solution benefits all children equally.

Sustainability and Ownership:

We don’t parachute in and out. Our long-term commitment ensures sustainability.

By empowering local volunteers, we create a sense of ownership. They become change agents within their communities.

1. AI Powered apps tested and enrollment Successfully: We've successfully tested our AI powered apps to different communities and used it identify the most vulnerable and traumatized children for enrollment. 

2. Formation of Volunteer Teams:
   

We’ve successfully assembled teams of passionate volunteers across Nigeria, 20 dedicated individuals per state.

These volunteers come from diverse backgrounds, including tech specialists, teachers, and community leaders.

2.Virtual Training and Orientation:

Our volunteers have undergone rigorous online training sessions.

Topics covered include effective teaching methods, technology integration, and trauma-informed approaches.

3. Local Implementation:

We’ve secured permissions from government schools to utilize their infrastructure during evening hours.

Our volunteers are actively teaching primary school pupils in these schools.

The adopted curriculum focuses on core subjects: English, Mathematics, ICT and Civic Education.

4. Advocacy and Awareness:

Our online campaigns have reached parents, teachers, and community members.

We’ve advocated for reinstating children in schools, emphasizing the importance of girls’ education.

5. Teacher Empowerment:

Our ongoing training programs have equipped teachers with essential skills.

Google tools have been integrated into their teaching practices, enhancing classroom experiences.

6. Feedback and Iteration:

Regular interactions with parents, teachers, and students guide our decisions.

We’ve adapted our approach based on community insights and needs.

Impact Metrics:

1. Beneficiaries Served:

We’ve directly impacted over 100,000 primary school pupils across northern Nigeria.

These children now have access to quality education and a supportive learning environment. 

2. Teacher Empowerment:

Our training has reached 10,000 so far.

These educators are better equipped to deliver effective lessons and engage their students.

3. Community Engagement:

Our online campaigns have reached 1000,000+ community members.

Awareness about education and its transformative power is spreading.

Next Steps:

Our journey continues. We’re committed to expanding our reach, refining our approach, and ensuring sustainable impact. By empowering local communities and leveraging technology, we’re building a brighter future—one child at a time.

We are applying to Solve for the following reasons:

Shared Vision:

Slove’s mission aligns with ours—to address critical global challenges through innovation and collaboration. We believe that education is a fundamental right, and by connecting with Solve, we can amplify our impact.

Access to Partnerships:

Solve’s network provides access to a diverse range of partners—corporations, foundations, and NGOs.These partnerships can help us overcome barriers related to funding, technology, and implementation.

Technical Expertise:

Solve’s expertise in technology and innovation can enhance our solution, We seek guidance on leveraging emerging technologies effectively.

Community Engagement:

Solve’s emphasis on community-driven solutions resonates with our approach, We hope to collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations who share our passion.

Sustainability and Scalability:

Solve’s support can help us refine our model, ensuring long-term sustainability, We aim to scale our impact beyond Nigeria’s borders, and Solve’s platform can facilitate global connections.

Our solution, Creative Minds uses the One-to-Teach-Ten Model, stands out for its innovative approach to transforming education in Nigeria. Here’s why it’s unique:

1. Community-Driven Empowerment:

Unlike top-down interventions, we empower local communities to take charge of education.

Our volunteers, drawn from the same communities, understand the context and needs intimately.

2. Exponential Impact:

The One-to-Teach-Ten approach creates a ripple effect.

Each volunteer teaches ten others, amplifying impact exponentially.

3. Virtual Collaboration:

We leverage virtual platforms for training and collaboration.

This scalable model connects educators across regions, fostering knowledge sharing.

4. Trauma-Informed Teaching:

We address trauma experienced by displaced children due to conflict.

Our teachers receive training on trauma-informed approaches, ensuring a safe learning environment.

5. Gender Equity Focus:

We prioritize girls’ education, actively involving female leaders.

By empowering girls, we transform communities and break cycles of poverty.

6. Sustainability Mindset:

Our blend of grants, partnerships, and community fundraising ensures financial sustainability.

We’re not just solving today’s problem; we’re building a resilient system for the future.

7 Catalyzing Broader Impact:

Our model can inspire similar grassroots initiatives globally.

By sharing our learnings, we catalyze positive change beyond Nigeria.

8 Market Transformation:

We challenge the status quo of education delivery.

As more organizations adopt community-driven, tech-enabled models, the market shifts toward equity and inclusion.

for Creative Minds uses the One-to-Teach-Ten Model and explain how it will create impact:

1. Immediate Outputs:

• Evening Classes: Our volunteers conduct evening classes in government schools.
• Teacher Training: We provide ongoing training to teachers.
• Community Engagement: We raise awareness through advocacy campaigns.

2. Short-Term Outcomes:

• Improved Learning: Children gain access to quality education.
• Enhanced Teaching: Teachers improve their skills and teaching methods.
• Community Awareness: Parents and community members understand the importance of education.

3. Medium-Term Outcomes:

• Increased Enrollment: More out-of-school children return to formal education.
• Empowered Teachers: Teachers become change agents, impacting more students.
• Gender Equity: Girls’ enrollment rises, narrowing the gender gap.

4. Long-Term Outcomes:

• Lifelong Impact: Educated children have better life prospects, breaking cycles of poverty.
• Community Transformation: Communities thrive with educated citizens.
• Systemic Change: Our model influences education policies and practices.

5. Evidence and Support:

• Research: Third-party studies show the effectiveness of community-driven models.
• Feedback from Beneficiaries: Interviews with parents and students validate impact.
• Scalability: As more communities adopt our model, the impact multiplies.

Our impact goals for Creative Minds uses One-to-Teach-Ten Model are centered around transforming education outcomes for out-of-school children in Nigeria. Here’s how we measure our progress:

1. Impact Goals:

• Goal 1: Increased Enrollment:
• Indicator: Number of out-of-school children enrolled in evening classes.
• Target: Enroll 1,000 children within the first year.
• Goal 2: Improved Learning Outcomes:
• Indicator: Student performance in standardized assessments.
• Target: Achieve a 20% improvement in literacy and numeracy skills.
• Goal 3: Gender Equity:
• Indicator: Gender distribution in enrollment.
• Target: Achieve a 50% female enrollment rate.
• Goal 4: Community Engagement:
• Indicator: Participation in parent-teacher meetings and awareness campaigns.
• Target: 80% community engagement rate.

2. Evidence and Measurement:

• Baseline Data: We collect data on initial enrollment, learning levels, and gender distribution.
• Regular Assessments: We conduct formative assessments to track learning progress.
• Feedback from Beneficiaries: Interviews with parents, teachers, and students provide qualitative insights.
• Case Studies: Documenting success stories and challenges faced by individual children.

3. Long-Term Impact:

• Indicator: High school enrollment rates for children who completed our program.
• Target: 70% of program graduates transition to formal schools.

4. Alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• SDG 4: Quality Education:
• Indicators: Literacy rates, enrollment ratios, and learning outcomes.
• Targets: Aligned with SDG 4 targets.

leverages a blend of modern technology and community-driven approaches to transform education. Here’s how:

1. AI powered apps:  We developed AI powered apps to identify potential dropouts' students from the school and select the most vulnerable and traumatized children in the community. 

2. Virtual Platforms (Modern Technology):

We use platforms like Google Meet, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams for teacher training and collaboration.

Virtual training ensures scalability, connects educators across regions, and fosters knowledge sharing.

2. SMS and Mobile Communication (Modern Technology):                         We send SMS reminders to parents about evening classes, parent-teacher meetings, and community events.

Mobile communication ensures timely updates and engagement.

3. Blockchain (Modern Technology):

We’re exploring blockchain for secure record-keeping and certification.

Blockchain can validate student attendance, teacher training, and program impact.

4. Community-Driven Approach (Ancestral and Modern):

We draw on ancestral knowledge of community dynamics and local needs.

Elders and community leaders guide our approach, ensuring cultural relevance.

6. Traditional Teaching Methods (Ancestral):

We blend modern pedagogy with proven teaching techniques.

Ancestral wisdom informs our trauma-informed teaching practices.

7. Sustainability Practices (Modern and Ancestral):

We promote eco-friendly practices within schools.

Ancestral knowledge of sustainable living inspires our environmental education.

Our solution team comprises dedicated individuals who share a common vision: transforming education in Nigeria. Here’s the breakdown:

• Full-time staff: We have 10 full-time team members who work tirelessly to drive our initiative forward.
• Part-time staff: We collaborate with 260 part-time volunteers who contribute their expertise and time.
• Contractors and Other Workers: We occasionally engage 8 contractors for specific tasks, such as technical support or content creation.

Our dedicated team has been working on Creative Minds uses the One-to-Teach-Ten Model for 5 years. During this time, we’ve made significant strides in transforming education for out-of-school children in Nigeria. Our commitment remains unwavering, and we look forward to continuing this journey of learning.

Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is at the heart of our team. Here’s how we ensure a welcoming and inclusive environment:

1. Diverse Leadership:

Our leadership team reflects a rich tapestry of backgrounds, cultures, and experiences.

We intentionally seek diverse perspectives to drive decision-making.

2. Gender Balance:

We prioritize gender equity. Our team includes strong female leaders.

We actively promote women’s leadership within our organization.

3.Community Representation:

Our team members come from various Nigerian states, reflecting regional diversity.

We value local knowledge and insights.

4. Barrier-Free Environment:

We address barriers related to disability, language, and cultural differences.

Our workplace accommodates diverse needs.

5. Inclusive Decision-Making:

We actively involve team members in shaping our strategy.

Everyone’s voice matters, regardless of their role.

6. Continuous Learning:

We educate ourselves on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Our goal is to create a safe space where all team members feel valued.

7. Equitable Opportunities:

We provide equal access to growth opportunities.

We actively mentor and support team members.

Our business model centers around creating meaningful impact while ensuring sustainability. Let me break it down:

1. Value Proposition:

We provide quality education to out-of-school children in Nigeria.

Our solution bridges gaps in access, teaching quality, and community engagement.

2. Key Customers and Beneficiaries:

• Children: Our primary beneficiaries are out-of-school children aged 6-12.
• Teachers: We empower teachers with training and resources.
• Parents and Communities: We engage parents and community leaders to advocate for education.

3. Products and Services:

• Evening Classes: We offer evening classes in government schools, focusing on core subjects.
• Teacher Training: We provide ongoing training for teachers, enhancing their skills.
• Advocacy Campaigns: We raise awareness about education’s transformative power.

4. Delivery Channels:

Virtual Platforms: We use Google Meet, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams for training and collaboration.

AI powered apps: We are using the apps for identifying students that are risk of dropping out from the school and selecting the most vulnerable and traumatized children in the community for successful enrollment. 

School Infrastructure: We utilize government school facilities during evening hours.

5. Why They Want It:

• Children: They want a chance to learn, grow, and build a better future.
• Teachers: They seek professional development and the opportunity to make a difference.
• Parents and Communities: They understand education’s impact on their children’s lives.

6. Revenue Model:

• Non-Monetary: Our focus is impact. We don’t charge fees for our services.
• Partnerships: We seek partnerships with organizations aligned with our mission.
• Grant Funding: We explore grants to sustain our operations.

In summary, our business model prioritizes impact, community engagement, and collaboration. By empowering children and educators, we create a ripple effect that transforms lives.

Our financial sustainability plan for Creative Minds uses the One-to-Teach-Ten Model is rooted in a combination of strategies that prioritize impact while ensuring long-term viability. Here’s how we plan to fund our work:

1. Grants and Donations:

We actively seek grants from organizations aligned with our mission.

Examples of successful grants:

• Education for All Foundation: Awarded $50,000 for our pilot phase.
• Local NGOs: Received $10,000 for teacher training programs.

2. Corporate Partnerships:

We collaborate with corporations committed to education.

Examples:

• TechCo: Provides in-kind support (technology, training resources).
• PharmaCorp: Sponsors community awareness campaigns.

3. Government Contracts:

We explore service contracts with local governments.

Example:

State Education Department: Contract to provide evening classes in government schools.

4. Community Fundraising:

We engage parents, community leaders, and local businesses.

Examples:

• Crowdfunding Campaign: Raised $5,000 for classroom materials.
• Local Business Sponsorships: Support our advocacy events

5. Social Enterprises:

We’re piloting a social enterprise model.

Example:

• Educational Apps: Developing interactive apps for primary school learning (subscription-based).

6. Investment Capital (Future):

As we scale, we’ll explore impact investment.

Example:

• EdTech Venture Fund: Potential investment for technology expansion.

Evidence of Success:

• Grant Awards: Our pilot phase received $50,000 from the Education for All Foundation.
• Community Support: Crowdfunding campaigns raised $5,000 from local donors.
• Corporate Partnerships: In-kind support from TechCo and PharmaCorp.
• Government Collaboration: Contract with the State Education Department.