In recent years, Africa has emerged as a testing ground for AI in education, where startups, governments, and multinational companies are deploying solutions ranging from voice-enabled tools for local dialects to offline-capable learning platforms.
The Vertical event brought together VCs, family offices, startups, and philanthropies to discuss scalable investment opportunities in AI-powered education.
Richard Osei-Anim, founder and CEO of Coral Reef Innovation Africa and lead AI advisor across African education systems, highlighted the scale of current efforts.
“We’ve built about 750 smart labs across Ghana and Nigeria, working with governments, foundations, and corporations,” he said. “This year, we’re upgrading 700 of these into AI labs and adding another 300. In every district, you’ll now find at least one lab in primary or junior high schools.”
Credit: Polina Falcon, The Vertical
Osei-Anim emphasized the importance of inclusive access. “Rural students, who previously had no devices, are now participating in competitions and developing projects alongside city peers,” he said.
He also described teacher training programs designed to certify educators as “Intel Master Coaches,” ensuring labs are used effectively.
Mike Spaeth, global vice president at the United States Artificial Intelligence Institute, highlighted Africa’s rapid adoption of AI.
“Africa is ahead of many countries in implementing AI labs. Students there are eager to compete globally, but many lack access to devices. Our goal is to provide opportunities that level the playing field,” Spaeth said.
He noted that the institute’s global hackathon involves 20,000 students, with roughly 30% in Africa, emphasizing the need for accessible infrastructure to support AI skill development.
The discussion also touched on the financial and operational models supporting Africa’s AI education ecosystem.
“Devices may not be glamorous, but they are essential,” Osei-Anim said. “Opportunities exist in hardware, software, and content development, including multilingual digital curricula, certification programs, and public-private partnerships.”
Moderated by Jasmine Sandler, founder and CEO of JSMedia, the breakfast highlighted the long-term opportunities in Africa’s education sector.
Speakers emphasized that the continent’s EdTech market offers both social impact and financial potential, with scalable innovations tackling pressing educational challenges while preparing the next generation of AI talent.
Disclaimer: The Vertical’s ‘Investor Breakfast: Opportunities in Africa’s AI Education Boom’ was supported by Coral Reef Innovation Africa and Civic Hall.
