Zenafri, an innovative Nigerian education platform, has been shortlisted among 20 educators and projects for the 2022 Commonwealth Education Awards.

In a statement made available to Peoples Gazette on Thursday, the Commonwealth secretariat disclosed that six finalists will be announced at the Commonwealth Education Ministers meeting in Nairobi on April 28, 2022.

On the choice of nominees, the award organisers said they were shortlisted for their positive impact on students, teachers, and education system across the commonwealth.

The shortlist of 20 entries includes a diverse range of inspirational educators and innovative projects, such as those aimed at promoting literacy among women and combating youth unemployment, as well as those aimed at empowering teachers and academics and promoting peace education.

The Commonwealth disclosed that an expert panel of judges selected the 20 shortlisted entries in the following categories: Rethinking Education for Innovation; Rethinking Education for Work; Rethinking Education for Sustainability; Education as Pathways to Peace; Education for Inclusion; and Commonwealth Outstanding Teacher or School Leader.

Speaking on the nomination Patricia Scotland QC, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, explained that the award does “not only celebrate promising and innovative practices, but also aim to share these ideas with other Commonwealth countries who can replicate them to improve learning outcomes.”

On his part, Layne Robinson, Head of Social Policy Development at the Commonwealth Secretariat, disclosed that about 2,462 entries from 32 countries were received for the award.

 “This year, a record number of entries – 2,462 entries – from 32 countries was received, of which 640 met the submission criteria. Judges were highly impressed by the numerous examples of excellence, resilience, talent and innovation in the many submissions received,” said Mr Robinson.

In the business of creating mobile applications designed to teach young Africans indigenous languages, Zenafari simplifies learning for African children and young adults by creating mobile applications and video content that teach children in their native languages and in contexts they understand.