ChemCheemi

ChemChem Africa Company Limited (ChemCheemi)

ChemCheemi

Inclusive and interactive Solar powered IoT Learning system with gamified contents and activities for African children aged 3-14.

Mwanza

TZA

For-profit, including B-Corp or similar models

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In Tanzania, over 80% of Form Two and Form Four students have failed their basic mathematics exams over the past nine years, according to National Examination Council result reports, highlighting serious deficiencies in foundational numeracy skills. These poor learning outcomes stem from insufficient literacy and numeracy development during early childhood education, leaving many children unprepared for higher-level subjects. In some regions, children reach Standard Four without basic reading and numeracy skills, contributing to what the World Bank defines as Learning Poverty—where students lack foundational literacy and numeracy skills crucial for academic success. More broadly, across Sub-Saharan Africa, about 89% of children cannot read or perform basic math by age 10, emphasizing the urgency of addressing early learning gaps. Additionally, excessive screen time among young children causes cognitive and developmental challenges, including shortened attention spans, speech delays, and reduced social interaction, further hindering their ability to learn effectively. ChemCheemi provides a screen-free, interactive learning solution that not only strengthens early literacy and numeracy skills but also promotes cognitive, linguistic, and motor development, offering a healthier alternative to screen-based learning while ensuring children build the foundational skills needed for future academic success.

ChemCheemi is a screen-free, interactive audio learning system powered by IoT technologies and a gamification approach designed to bridge early learning gaps and foster healthy cognitive development in children aged 3-14. By blending storytelling, hands-on learning, and engaging activities, ChemCheemi equips children with foundational literacy, numeracy, and STEM skills, preparing them for higher education. At the core, ChemCheemi is a solar-powered IoT audio system that is programmable to provide self-paced interactive educational content, such as songs, stories, quizzes, exercises, and games, focused on math and science themes. The device uses RFID technology to respond to specific programmed flashcards, triggering the delivery of relevant content and promoting engagement through flashcard interaction. The content grows with a child, follows a learning progression algorithm, aligns with Tanzanian culture and local curricula, and is available in both Kiswahili and English. It also includes specialized modules, such as Braille-supported content for visually impaired learners, ensuring inclusivity for children with disabilities. Additionally, the platform facilitates simple plug-and-play STEM modules and tangible programming lessons, allowing children to interact with simple robots and other mini STEM projects, sparking interest in STEM careers while reducing costs for parents by providing a single platform for diverse activities.

ChemCheemi is currently targeting kids aged 3 - 14 who are in pre- and primary schools and early secondary level as the primary beneficiaries. Currently there are more than 14.6 Milion children in pre, primary and secondary (Form I - IV) schools in Tanzania, whereby 7.2 milion are boys and 7.4 milion are girls, according to Pre-Primary, Primary, Secondary, Adult and Non-Formal Education Statistics 2020 by the President's Office Regional Administration and Local Government. With a focus on the underserved communities across Tanzania, especially in rural, low-income, and marginalized populations such as girls and children with disabilities. These children often lack access to quality educational materials, digital devices, the internet, and inclusive learning resources. Girls face social and cultural barriers that limit their engagement in STEM, while children with disabilities, particularly those with visual impairments, are often excluded due to inaccessible tools. Our screen-free, audio-based learning system is designed to overcome these barriers. It uses a rechargeable, solar-compatible device and interactive flashcards to deliver educational content without needing internet or expensive hardware. Content is localized in Kiswahili and English and aligned with Tanzania’s curriculum, including Braille-enabled cards for visually impaired learners.