FLOW, a Nigerian digital learning startup that uses positive psychology and social-emotional learning principles to create dynamic and interactive curricula for students aged 7 to 18, plans to expand its successful model to other African countries and the United Kingdom (UK).
“The seeds for FLOW were planted from my own experiences overcoming educational challenges, realising that academic success alone does not equate to full personal development,” founder Morayo Ojikutu told reporters.
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FLOW’s Insights into Enriching Education
FLOW was established in response to these insights to enhance education beyond the confines of traditional academics. It has created digital learning platforms for both individuals and schools. Ojikutu said her goal was for every young person to live a life “based on personal values and purpose.”
She said, “Through our all-encompassing educational platform, we hope to encourage self-fulfilment and improvement by giving young people the tools and information they need to reach their full potential.”
Traditional education focuses on rote learning without developing soft skills like emotional intelligence and creative thinking, limiting student potential.
This big hole is filled by FLOW, which teaches kids essential life skills while also getting them ready for school and, eventually, for life. “Our approach is different from traditional ways of teaching, and we’re in a market that’s ripe for game-changing solutions,” Ojikutu said.
The platform uses Positive Psychology and Behavioural Economics ideas in its learning materials. It has worked with over 30 top schools in Lagos since it started, getting a lot of students without doing much advertising.
“Our next goal is to reach schools with low incomes and have a bigger effect on people across borders,” Ojikutu said.
Additionally, the business intends to expand its operations to other countries.
“Right now, our main office is in Nigeria, but we have plans to grow to the UK and other African countries to adapt our successful models to fit different educational and cultural settings,” Ojikutu said.
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Funding Success: FLOW’s Journey with Orange Corners
Orange Corners, supported by the Kingdom of the Netherlands, has provided US$30,000 in financing to FLOW, while the Mastercard Foundation has contributed an additional US$100,000.
“These funds have been vital in helping us grow and improve our programmes,” Ojikutu said.
FLOW’s business model is B2B2C, meaning schools and parents buy its goods.
Through the FLOW Academy, schools can buy packages that include teacher training. Parents can sign up their kids for the FLOW Club and relevant classes. “This two-way revenue stream ensures that our offerings can grow and stay funded,” Ojikutu said.