Funzi and UNDP to deliver mobile learning in conflict areas

Funzi and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have partnered to deliver mobile learning to students in Syria. The goal of the partnership is to promote long-term participation, sustainability, and self-sufficiency of UNDP's local partners in the country.

Tailored training modules for UNDP's local partners and their beneficiaries will be launched as mobile learning on www.funzi.mobi starting late 2017. Training will be delivered in two phases. The goal of the first phase is to develop essential program lifecycle management skills for UNDP and NGO field staff.

The second phase offers training to vulnerable populations like the displaced, and women- and youth-headed households to support them in achieving social cohesion and sustainable livelihoods.

This program is a significant milestone not only for Funzi, but Finnish education export, and especially mobile as a delivery mechanism for learning opportunities to vulnerable populations in conflict areas around the world.

Conflicts in Syria have resulted in shortage of jobs and infrastructure, as well as lack of security in certain parts of the country. UNESCO policy guidelines for mobile learning affirm that mobile devices can help ensure the continuity of education during times of crisis.

Funzi CEO and founder Tero Salonen commented: "Funzi is an active member in the Regional Refugee and Resilience Plan in response to the Syria crisis (3RP). Our participation and experience in developing and implementing mobile learning services for displaced populations allow us to create learning programs that are effective in knowledge transfer and skills development, while remaining cost-efficient and scalable."