Systems Innovation in Africa - A Conversation with Odunayo Aliu
Dec 4, 2023
auto_awesome
Odunayo Aliu, an Education Specialist and Development Practitioner, discusses transforming education in marginalized communities in Africa. They explore challenges faced in Nigeria, the benefits of project-based learning, and the introduction of the 'Brand Box' for offline access to online educational content. They also discuss personal journeys in social change and the importance of community and advocacy for change.
Bramble Network aims to address the challenges of education in rural Nigeria by establishing community-based learning centers and providing capacity building for educators, ultimately transforming education and creating an inclusive learning environment.
Deeply rooted cultural norms and perceptions contribute to gender disparity in education in rural Nigerian communities, with girls facing barriers that hinder their access to education, highlighting the need to shift mindsets and provide equal educational opportunities for all children.
Deep dives
Transformative Education in Nigeria
The podcast episode explores the importance of transformative education in Nigeria, specifically in rural and marginalized communities. The founder and director of the Bramble Network, Odenaiou Alu, shares her experience in creating alternative learning spaces for children from low economic backgrounds. The educational system in Nigeria faces two major challenges: a large number of children not enrolled in school and a lack of quality education for those who are. Through Bramble, Odenaiou aims to address these challenges by establishing community-based learning centers and providing capacity building for educators. The goal is to transform education and create a supportive and inclusive learning environment that promotes lifelong learning, empowers students to take agency over their education, and fosters character development.
Challenges of Rural Education in Nigeria
The podcast highlights the unique challenges faced by rural education in Nigeria. These challenges include a lack of quality teachers, insufficient infrastructure, limited access to resources, and the prevalence of low-cost private schools. Competent teachers are scarce in rural communities due to rural-urban migration and the perceived lack of attractiveness of the teaching profession. Many communities lack dedicated learning spaces, with dilapidated buildings and insufficient facilities. Additionally, the remoteness of rural areas makes it difficult to attract volunteers and ensure access to resources. The majority of schools in rural communities are low-cost private schools with varying standards.
Gender Disparity in Education
The podcast discusses the gender disparity in education, particularly in rural communities. Deeply rooted cultural norms and perceptions hinder girls' access to education. In many rural areas, girls are not prioritized for education due to beliefs that they should focus on domestic responsibilities or that education may hinder their prospects for marriage. This leads to a higher dropout rate for girls compared to boys. Overcoming these cultural and societal barriers is necessary to empower girls and provide equal educational opportunities. Bramble aims to shift mindsets and promote the value of education for all children, regardless of gender.
Transformative Learning and Community Engagement
The podcast delves into the process of implementing transformative learning centers in Nigerian communities. The founder of Bramble network, Odenaiou Alu, shares her experience of introducing a new educational approach that focuses on intrinsic motivation and holistic learning. Engaging with parents and community leaders was crucial in changing their perception of education and encouraging their involvement. Odenaiou emphasizes the significance of shifting the traditional hierarchical structure of education to create spaces where children have agency and can co-create their learning. The transformation goes beyond academics, encompassing character development and values like empathy, kindness, critical thinking, and problem-solving. The success of Bramble's approach is evident through positive changes observed in students' motivation, attendance, academic progress, and character development.
Odunayo Aliu is an Education Specialist and Development Practitioner with experience in transforming the education landscape in rural and marginalized communities. She is the Founder of Bramble Network, a nonprofit organization that provides equitable educational opportunities to children and youth in rural and marginalized communities. Through her leadership, Odunayo has also been instrumental in the establishment and management of several EdTech and social enterprise initiatives, utilizing cutting-edge technology and community organizing to influence mindsets and cause societal change. Her ultimate aim is to democratise access to learning and transform education for millions of young people across Africa.
