FUMACO created "Empowering Neurodivergent & Neurotypical Kids Together" to address the critical gap in inclusive education for neurodivergent children, who often face exclusion due to systems designed for neurotypical norms. Traditional education models can marginalize these learners, leading to lower academic outcomes, social isolation, and reduced self-esteem. Our innovation uses adaptive software and the onetab device to deliver personalized learning, supporting over 700,000 children across country. By focusing on the unique needs of neurodivergent kids—such as sensory sensitivities and diverse learning styles—we ensure they thrive alongside their neurotypical peers. The key driver was to foster an environment where all children feel valued, promoting empathy, reducing stigma, and enhancing social cohesion. Our co-creation approach involves neurodivergent children in designing content, making it meaningful and accessible. This not only boosts literacy and numeracy for marginalized kids but also enriches the learning experience for everyone, cultivating a generation that celebrates diversity and collaboration.
In practice, "Empowering Neurodivergent & Neurotypical Kids Together" delivers education through the one tab device, a portable tool loaded with adaptive software tailored for diverse learners. In Tanzania country, children different like those in Malawi—over 700,000 strong—use one tab daily for literacy and numeracy lessons. The software adjusts to each child’s pace and needs, offering interactive activities with inclusive character designs that resonate with neurodivergent kids, ensuring engagement. For example, a child with sensory sensitivities might interact with calming visuals, while a neurotypical peer collaborates on the same task, fostering shared learning. Co-creation workshops involve kids in shaping content, making it culturally relevant and accessible. Teachers monitor progress via the platform, ensuring every child, especially the most marginalized, thrives in a supportive, inclusive environment.
The "Empowering Neurodivergent & Neurotypical Kids Together" initiative by FUMACO has been spreading in Tanzania through targeted educational interventions. In a 15-month study involving 2,700 children, onebillion’s onecourse software significantly improved literacy: initially, less than 10% of participating children could read a single Swahili word, but post-trial, 45% could read a word, and 30% could read full sentences. This trial demonstrated the software’s effectiveness in community settings, particularly for out-of-school children, helping to build trust and interest in the program.
Since the initial rollout of "Empowering Neurodivergent & Neurotypical Kids Together," FUMACO has expanded its innovation by enhancing the onetab device and software to better support diverse learning needs. They’ve integrated more advanced adaptive algorithms to personalize learning paths further, ensuring content adjusts dynamically to each child’s progress and challenges. Additionally, they’ve incorporated AI-driven sensory adjustments, like customizable visuals and audio settings, to better accommodate neurodivergent children with sensory sensitivities. To amplify impact, onebillion has also increased training for educators, focusing on neuroinclusion strategies, and expanded partnerships with local communities in the 17 countries to tailor content culturally, making it more relevant and effective for diverse populations. These updates aim to deepen engagement and accessibility for all learners.
Empowering Neurodivergent & Neurotypical Kids Together" by FUMACO need to explore access to their one tab device and software. Since onebillion is a nonprofit focused on large-scale educational initiatives, they primarily distribute onetab through partnerships with schools, governments, and organizations, especially in regions like Malawi, Uganda, and the U.S.