UNICEF StartUp Lab Challenge: AI-Powered Tools for Diagnosing Learning Gaps (Ghana)

Deadline: 6 March 2026

About UNICEF StartUp Lab

Launched in 2019, the UNICEF StartUp Lab is a six-month accelerator programme designed to support high-impact startups advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for children and young people.
The programme is led by UNICEF Ghana, supported by KOICA, and implemented by MEST Africa.

The Lab offers a unique blend of hands-on business acceleration and deep technical expertise from UNICEF specialists across key social sectors, including:

• Education
• Health & Nutrition
• Social Protection & Policy
• WASH (Water, Sanitation & Hygiene)
• Child Protection

Startups benefit from personalized mentorship, access to UN system partners, prototyping funding, and a range of support mechanisms to help scale impactful solutions.

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Challenge: AI-Powered Tools for Teachers – Diagnosing Learning Gaps

Challenge Statement

UNICEF is seeking innovative, teacher-friendly AI-driven diagnostic tools that enable educators at JHS, SHS, and TVET levels to quickly and accurately identify foundational literacy and numeracy gaps in learners.
The goal is to empower teachers with actionable insights and support effective AI-driven remedial strategies.

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Background

Many children transition from primary school without essential literacy and numeracy skills. Teachers at higher levels often have limited means to assess students’ foundational competencies, and Ghana lacks accurate, up-to-date data on these learning gaps.

This challenge aims to equip educators with AI tools that:

• Rapidly diagnose student learning levels
• Provide individualized learner profiles
• Support effective remedial interventions
• Strengthen data-driven decision-making in classrooms

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Who Should Apply?

Ghana-based startups, innovators, and tech-driven enterprises capable of building:

• AI or machine learning tools
• Digital learning diagnostics
• Teacher-support technology
• Data-driven education solutions

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Benefits for the Winning Startup

The selected startup will receive:

• $5,000 grant to advance prototype development
• Direct mentorship from UNICEF education specialists
• Technical support to create longitudinal learner profiles for national-level impact

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How to Apply

Application Link
Deadline: 6 March 2026

For questions or assistance, contact:
mazam@unicef.org
mary@meltwater.org

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Can your innovation help teachers close Ghana’s learning gaps?

Apply now and contribute to strengthening education for children and young people across the country.