Latest news with #AlefEducation
Web Release
17 hours ago
- Business
- Web Release
High-Level Delegation from Senegal visits Alef Education Headquarters in Abu Dhabi to Discuss Collaboration in Digital Education
Alef Education, a UAE-based global leader in education technology, hosted a high-level delegation from the Republic of Senegal at its headquarters in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant step toward deepening collaboration, fostering knowledge exchange, and showcasing the company's leading projects and innovative solutions in the education sector. The visit builds on the momentum of the previous visit by H.E. Bassirou Diomaye Faye, President of Senegal, to Alef Education's headquarters. This milestone event set the stage for a robust bilateral partnership and reflected a shared commitment to reimagining the future of education through innovation and strategic cooperation. Dr. Aishah Al Yammahi, Strategic Advisor at Alef Education, said: 'This visit marks a significant step in advancing bilateral collaboration and unlocking new opportunities. Senegal's renewed trust in Alef Education, driven by its commitment to educational reform and innovation, is both humbling and inspiring. It motivates us to continue our mission of delivering meaningful, tech-enabled learning experiences that benefit not only today's students but future generations as well.' Delegation members expressed their appreciation for the visit, noting that it served as a platform to consolidate and expand areas of bilateral partnership. They emphasised the mutual dedication of both parties to advancing a future-ready, technology-driven education system that empowers learners and educators. The delegation was given a detailed presentation of Alef Education's portfolio of AI-powered innovative products and services, including smart assessment tools with precision analytics, adaptive learning systems tailored to individual student needs, and professional development programs designed to equip educators with digital-age competencies.
Mid East Info
a day ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
High-Level Delegation from Senegal visits Alef Education Headquarters in Abu Dhabi to Discuss Collaboration in Digital Education
Abu Dhabi,May 2025: Alef Education, a UAE-based global leader in education technology, hosted a high-level delegation from the Republic of Senegal at its headquarters in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant step toward deepening collaboration, fostering knowledge exchange, and showcasing the company's leading projects and innovative solutions in the education sector. The visit builds on the momentum of the previous visit by H.E. Bassirou Diomaye Faye, President of Senegal, to Alef Education's headquarters. This milestone event set the stage for a robust bilateral partnership and reflected a shared commitment to reimagining the future of education through innovation and strategic cooperation. Dr. Aishah Al Yammahi, Strategic Advisor at Alef Education, said: 'This visit marks a significant step in advancing bilateral collaboration and unlocking new opportunities. Senegal's renewed trust in Alef Education, driven by its commitment to educational reform and innovation, is both humbling and inspiring. It motivates us to continue our mission of delivering meaningful, tech-enabled learning experiences that benefit not only today's students but future generations as well.' Delegation members expressed their appreciation for the visit, noting that it served as a platform to consolidate and expand areas of bilateral partnership. They emphasised the mutual dedication of both parties to advancing a future-ready, technology-driven education system that empowers learners and educators. The delegation was given a detailed presentation of Alef Education's portfolio of AI-powered innovative products and services, including smart assessment tools with precision analytics, adaptive learning systems tailored to individual student needs, and professional development programs designed to equip educators with digital-age competencies.
Forbes
07-05-2025
- Forbes
The Future Of Arabic Language Learning Through EdTech
Geoffrey Alphonso, CEO of Alef Education . getty Arabic is one of the most spoken languages in the world, with over 400 million speakers. Historically, it has played a significant role in religious, literary and academic traditions. However, in an increasingly interconnected world, proficiency in the Arabic language has become a sought-after skill among non-native speakers. You might be surprised to hear that Arabic is one of the most studied languages in Western countries. Why? Well, a mix of reasons. The Middle East's geopolitical significance, economic opportunities in Arab countries, the region's rise as a major tourism hub and a desire to engage with rich cultural and religious traditions. Additionally, language mastery opens new doors to careers in international organizations, media, academia and trade, making Arabic a valuable asset for global professionals. This trend has been further amplified with governments and private organizations, particularly in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, pushing hard to promote Arabic learning by integrating it more deeply into everyday life and enhancing its global relevance. However, learning Arabic presents unique challenges due to its intricate script, diverse dialects and complex grammar. To bridge this gap, innovative language learning methodologies as well as integration of technology, including artificial intelligence, machine learning and big data, are essential. Despite the increasing demand for Arabic learning, non-native speakers face multiple challenges. One of the most significant obstacles is the complexity of the Arabic language itself. Its intricate script and right-to-left writing system can be difficult for learners unfamiliar with Semitic languages. Additionally, Arabic grammar and morphology, including root-based word structures, verb conjugations and case endings, present another layer of complexity. Another challenge is the linguistic diversity within Arabic itself. Many learners struggle with deciding whether to focus on MSA or a regional dialect, which impacts their ability to communicate effectively in real-world scenarios. Additionally, technology-based Arabic learning still faces challenges. This study highlights issues such as inconsistent content quality, unreliable internet access and a lack of social interaction. Furthermore, many Arabic language programs lack structured curricula, and educators often struggle to provide engaging and efficient instruction. A lack of native-speaking practice partners and interactive learning environments also hinders language acquisition. Edtech companies need to play a critical role in transforming Arabic language learning for non-native speakers by addressing these challenges through technology-driven solutions. By leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and data analytics, we can create personalized, adaptive learning experiences that cater to different proficiency levels and learning styles. According to a study by Rani, Zikriati, Muhammady, Syukran and Ali, technology-enabled Arabic language learning offers numerous benefits that enhance the quality of education. Therefore, there is a need to further enhance these tools by investing in advanced AI-driven platforms that offer personalized exercises, real-time feedback and targeted practice to enhance learning efficiency. We must also focus on further developing augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) applications, which can create engaging, real-life scenarios that allow learners to practice Arabic in a simulated environment. These tools can help non-native speakers develop practical conversational skills and build confidence in using the language in everyday situations. Balancing MSA with regional dialects is another key area where edtech can make a difference. Digital platforms can offer courses that seamlessly integrate both forms of Arabic, providing learners with a well-rounded linguistic foundation. Interactive voice recognition software can help learners improve pronunciation while distinguishing between formal and colloquial speech. Besides technological advancements, collaboration between edtech companies and educators is essential in refining digital tools and curricula. Gathering feedback from teachers and learners will help create more effective resources that address common learning obstacles. By leveraging AI, data analytics and virtual classrooms, Arabic language learning can become more accessible, efficient and appealing to global learners. Additionally, social media applications such as Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, Telegram and YouTube can serve as informal learning tools, fostering language practice through real-life interactions and digital communities. There are podcasts such as Simple & Easy Arabic or Arabic in 60 Steps , which can further enhance listening comprehension, vocabulary expansion and exposure to current events in the Arabic-speaking world. As Arabic continues to gain prominence on the global stage, the need for effective and innovative language-learning solutions is greater than ever. Addressing the barriers through technology and adaptive learning strategies will ensure that Arabic language learning becomes more accessible to non-native speakers. By investing in edtech advancements, cultural initiatives and structured curricula, we can contribute to shaping a future where Arabic is not only preserved but thrives as a key language in global communication, commerce and diplomacy. Forbes Technology Council is an invitation-only community for world-class CIOs, CTOs and technology executives. Do I qualify?
Mid East Info
02-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
H.E. Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah
Q1 2025 Revenues up 2% YoY, reaching AED 179.7 million driven by new contract wins. Q1 2025 Net Profit up 2% YoY to AED 115.3 million, on the back of consistent revenue growth and cost optimization. 90% of FY 2024 Net Profit distributed in dividends, totaling AED 402.8 million and yielding a strong ~ 10% dividend yield with AED 135 million (~ 10 fils per share) distributed to free float shareholders, and an equivalent amount guaranteed for FY 2025 reflecting Alef Education's disciplined growth strategy. 3-year ADEK contract extension secures UAE core revenue through 2033. New contract wins with growth drive momentum across UAE, Indonesia, Senegal and beyond. Miqyas Al Dhad reaches 86% completion and is on track for Q3 2025 launch, unlocking a new revenue stream in Arabic language literacy. Alef Education Holding Plc (the 'Company' or 'Alef Education' or 'ADX: ALEFEDT'), an award-winning AI-powered learning solutions provider redefining the educational experience for K-12 students, based in Abu Dhabi, today announced its financial results for the three-month period ending 31 March 2025. This marks the Company's fourth earnings announcement since its debut on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange ('ADX') in June 2024. It also follows the successful distribution of a AED 199.2 million cash dividend for H2 2024 in April 2025, as approved during Alef Education's Annual General Meeting ('AGM'), bringing the total FY 2024 dividend to AED 402.8 million, representing 90% of the Company's full-year Net Profit. Geoffrey Alphonso, Chief Executive Officer of Alef Education, stated: 'As we move through 2025, we're building strong momentum across both our B2G and B2B segments, supported by ongoing investment in innovation and global expansion. Our Q1 2025 results, marked by steady revenue growth and improved efficiency, underscore the strength of our long-term strategy and disciplined execution. With expanding presence in markets like Indonesia and continued progress in the UAE, Alef Education remains focused on transforming education through AI and delivering meaningful value across the education ecosystem and to all our stakeholders.' Strong and Profitable Q1 Growth Builds on the FY 2024 Momentum Reinforcing its position as a trusted partner for governments and private schools in the UAE and globally, Alef Education continues to see strong demand for its suite of innovative, bespoke education solutions. In Q1 2025, the Company reported Revenues of AED 179.7 million, marking a 2% year-on-year ('YoY') increase. This was primarily based on the stable contributions from the core UAE portfolio, Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge ('ADEK') contract, and further driven by robust growth in other business and government contracts outside of ADEK, locally and internationally. Alef Education continued to execute on its growth strategy during Q1 2025, with a strong focus on revenue diversification. EBITDA rose 2% to AED 132.8 million in Q1 2025, with a market-leading margin of 74%. Net profit reached AED 115.3 million, reflecting a 2% YoY increase, supported by consistent revenue growth and a strong 64% margin, underscoring Alef Education's ongoing commitment to cost discipline and operational optimization. Alef Education's strong, unlevered balance sheet, solid financial foundation, and robust cash flow generation continue to support its growth strategy. With AED 402.6 million in cash, no debt and a low liabilities-to-assets ratio of 18%, the Company is well-positioned to fund growth ambitions, while sustaining consistent dividend distributions. A Core Foundation Further Enhanced by Strategic Growth & Strategic Alliances The Company's recent contract extension with ADEK provides significant revenue visibility until 2033, provisioning for a minimum of 80,000 students with a fixed fee per student. While the ADEK contract constitutes the core of Alef Education's business, the Company is actively pursuing an opportunistic global growth strategy, particularly considering high-margin and value accretive opportunities. To support its goals of geographic expansion, revenue diversification, and customer and product portfolio growth, Alef Education secured a substantial pipeline of high-value leads across both public and private sectors in the MENA region and internationally during Q1 2025. Supporting its focus on deepening public sector partnerships, Alef Education marks expansion into Morocco in support of the Education Reform Plan 2022–2026, and progress on the MOU with Nahdet Misr to collaborate across the GCC, Levant, and North Africa. Alef Education strengthened its footprint in Indonesia in Q1 2025, aligning with national digital education goals through high-level ministerial talks aimed at long-term collaboration. Strategic partnerships were also forged to advance human capital development and equip students with future-ready skills. Additionally, the Company engaged in ongoing strategic dialogue with the Senegalese government about a potential long-term collaboration, following the visit of Senegal's President to Alef Education in November 2024. Continuous Innovation Transforming Learning Outcomes To meet rising demand for its expanding product portfolio, Alef Education is developing new variants of Alef Pathways and enhancing its Arabic learning offerings with additional content and resources. As part of its innovation agenda, Alef Education partnered with MetaMetrics® to develop Miqyas Al Dhad , the region's first Arabic reading scale aimed at improving literacy for Grade 1–12 Arabic speakers. Created in collaboration with regional ministries, the initiative supports Alef Education's growth strategy by opening new, sustainable revenue streams in Arabic language proficiency. Now 86% complete, Miqyas Al Dhad has engaged over 110,000 students across nine countries, with seven MOUs signed to date. The launch is on track for Q3 2025. Consistent Shareholder Returns and Significant Value Creation Beyond driving growth, Alef Education's strong financial foundation allows the Company to deliver sustained value to shareholders through a transparent and robust dividend policy. In line with its IPO commitment, Alef Education guarantees a minimum annual dividend payout of AED 135 million to its 20% free-float investors for FY2024 and FY2025, distributed semi-annually. Alef Education holds a leading position in the UAE's K–12 EdTech space, deeply embedded in the national education framework via ADEK. With guaranteed payments from ADEK, the Company enjoys stable, predictable cash flows, enabling consistent dividend payouts with an attractive yield driving long-term shareholder value. Following the Annual General Meeting ('AGM') held on 27 March 2025, Alef Education successfully distributed a cash dividend of AED 199.2 million for H2 2024 in April 2025. This brought the total FY 2024 dividend payout to AED 402.8 million, representing 90% of the Company's full-year net profit, reflecting ~ 10% dividend yield with AED 135 million (~ 10 fils per share) being distributed to free float shareholders, and an equivalent amount is guaranteed for FY 2025, reflecting Alef Education's disciplined growth strategy. Outlook: Alef Education enters the remainder of 2025 with a strong outlook, supported by long-term government contracts, a growing international presence, and continued innovation. Revenue is expected to witness 3-4% growth in FY 2025 YoY. EBITDA for the year is expected to increase by 8-9%, generating a higher margin of 70% backed by strict cost optimization efforts coupled with revenue growth. Similarly, Net Profit is expected to increase by 6-7% resulting in a strong and consistent margin of 60%. With predictable cash flows and a proven model, Alef Education is uniquely positioned to fuel innovation, scale globally, and lead the next era of digital learning, while sustaining attractive dividends and delivering long-term value to shareholders. AED millions Q1 2025 Q1 2024 % Change Revenues 179.7 176.7 1.7% Total Expenses 56.4 55.7 -1.3% EBITDA* 132.8 130.7 1.6% EBITDA Margin 74% 74% – Net Profit 115.3 113.0 2.0% Net Profit margin 64% 64% – * EBITDA is earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortization and lease expenses (interest and depreciation on right of use assets).
Arab News
01-05-2025
- Arab News
How Saudi schools are using AI to personalize learning and streamline administration
RIYADH: As Saudi Arabia forges ahead with its Vision 2030 initiative, artificial intelligence is becoming a cornerstone of its education reform. Across the Kingdom, AI technologies are reshaping classrooms — personalizing learning, streamlining administration and helping students of all abilities engage with their studies in new ways. 'AI technology has significantly changed the way many students, including myself, approach studying and managing coursework,' Abdullah Mohammed, a law student at Imam Mohammad ibn Saud Islamic University, told Arab News. 'Tools like AI tutoring systems and study apps have made learning more efficient, personalized and accessible.' While Mohammed said AI tools have enhanced his learning experience, he also acknowledged the need for caution. 'Some AI tools provide quick solutions without much depth, so if I'm not careful, I might miss the critical thinking part of the learning process,' he said. Ultimately, however, Mohammed said he is confident AI has better prepared him for the job market. The strategic alignment between AI and Vision 2030 is clear, according to Abdulrahman Al-Motrif, professor of information technology and educational computing at King Saud University. 'AI supports the goals of Vision 2030 by enabling personalized learning, optimizing resource management and facilitating access to quality education regardless of geographic location,' he told Arab News. 'AI systems can analyze student performance in real-time, allowing educators to tailor instruction to individual learning needs, thereby enhancing student outcomes and supporting the Kingdom's ambition to cultivate a future-ready workforce.' Al-Motrif also highlighted AI's role in promoting inclusive education. 'AI reinforces Vision 2030's emphasis on equity, accessibility, and lifelong learning by reaching remote communities and students with special needs,' he said. This demonstrates AI's impact not just as a technological innovation, but also as a powerful force for social transformation. Leading platforms like Alef Education and Classera are already putting this vision into practice. Using real-time analytics, they adapt content to each student's learning style, proficiency and pace. A study by Alef Education found that students using AI-enhanced platforms achieved a 25 percent improvement in academic performance over just one semester — strong evidence of AI's ability to boost outcomes through personalized learning. Crucially, AI is helping make education more accessible. In Saudi Arabia's diverse learning landscape, tools such as speech-to-text software, adaptive interfaces and real-time assessments are opening doors for students with disabilities. At King Saud University, collaborations with AI developers have produced tools for visually impaired students, converting written content into audio and using advanced screen-reading technology. 'AI has transformed the learning environment into a more interactive and engaging space,' said Al-Motrif. 'Gamified learning platforms and intelligent tutoring systems provide immediate feedback and customized challenges.' These innovations not only enhance academic performance, but also spark motivation and sustained engagement among learners. AI is also streamlining back-end operations. Platforms like Madrasati now use AI to monitor attendance, track engagement and assess academic progress, freeing educators to focus more on teaching and mentoring. Yet AI is not replacing teachers — it is redefining their roles. 'In AI-supported classrooms, educators serve as facilitators, mentors and human connectors in an increasingly digital ecosystem, using AI-generated insights to identify learning gaps,' said Al-Motrif. Still, challenges remain. One significant obstacle is the shortage of Arabic-language content online — making up only 1.2 percent of global digital resources — which limits the effectiveness of AI systems trained on data-rich environments. To fully realize AI's benefits, Saudi Arabia must invest in digitizing traditional materials, promoting Arabic content creation and partnering with AI firms to develop language-specific algorithms. Some institutions are already leading the way. Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University and King Abdulaziz University have adopted AI-powered systems to personalize instruction and track student performance, leading to higher satisfaction and retention rates. These successes show that AI is not merely a technological upgrade — it is a catalyst for reimagining education. By leveraging AI thoughtfully, Saudi Arabia has a unique opportunity to deliver high-quality, personalized and inclusive education while advancing its Vision 2030 goals. But achieving this future will require more than just technology. It will demand investment, collaboration and a commitment to ensuring that innovation, pedagogy and policy move forward together. With sustained effort, AI could become the foundation of a dynamic, future-ready education system — one that prepares all learners for the opportunities of the digital age.
