Latest news with #GeoffreyAlphonso
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. 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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).
Al Etihad
01-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Alef Education enters 2025 with strong Q1 performance, posting Dh115.3 million in net profit
1 May 2025 19:10 ABU DHABI (WAM)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, announced on Thursday its financial results for the three-month period ending March 31, marks the company's fourth earnings announcement since its debut on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) in June also follows the successful distribution of a Dh199.2 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 Dh402.8 million, representing 90% of the company's full-year net 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 Q1 2025, the Company reported revenues of Dh179.7 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 rose 2% to Dh132.8 million in Q1 2025, with a market-leading margin of 74%. Net profit reached Dh115.3 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 Education's strong, unlevered balance sheet, solid financial foundation, and robust cash flow generation continue to support its growth strategy. With Dh402.6 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. 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.'
Zawya
01-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Alef Education enters 2025 with strong Q1 performance
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. Abu Dhabi, UAE – 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). About Alef Education Founded in 2016, Alef Education (ALEFEDT on the Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange) is an award-winning AI-powered learning solutions provider that is redefining the educational experience for K-12 students. The Company has established a strong presence in the education technology sector, operating in approximately 14,000 schools across the UAE, the US, Indonesia and Morocco. Its flagship AI-integrated Alef Platform offers personalised learning experiences to more than 1.4 million registered students, enabling them to work at their own pace and reach their full potential anytime, anywhere. With a 100% penetration rate in Cycle 2 (Grades 5-8) and Cycle 3 (Grades 9-12), Alef Education has a proven track record of improving student engagement and achievement, with test scores in Indonesia increasing by 8.5% in Arabic and maths. The award-winning Alef Platform provides AI-powered learning and teaching solutions that use real-time data to drive improvements across the education system. Alef Pathways is a student-centred, self-paced supplemental math program. Abjadiyat is an Arabic language learning platform that provides engaging and interactive content from kindergarten to Grade 4. Arabits is a complete Arabic learning system for non-native speakers that helps students of all ages learn, practice, and improve their Arabic language skills using AI. Alongside supporting students throughout their educational journey, Alef Education supports 65,000 educators with tools that enrich instruction and enable high-impact interventions to improve student learning outcomes. Alef Education promotes engagement, achievement and equity in learning, preparing students for success in an ever-evolving world. For more information, visit Contacts
Zawya
31-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Alef Education shareholders approve $109.6mln cash dividend for 2024
ABU DHABI: Alef Education Holding Plc (Alef Education) today announced the successful conclusion of its first Annual General Meeting (AGM). Shareholders approved the Board of Directors' report on the Company's activity and its financial statements for the financial year ended 31st December 2024 (FY 2024), including the distribution of cash dividends amounting to AED199.2 million for the second half of FY 2024 of which AED67.5 million will be distributed to free float investors in April 2025. The approval brings the total dividend for FY 2024 to AED402.8 million, underscoring Alef Education's commitment to delivering sustainable value to its shareholders through a robust and transparent dividend policy promising a total of AED135 million to its free float investors in each year 2024 and 2025. During the AGM, Abdulhamid M. Saeed Alahmadi, Chairman of Alef Education, highlighted the Company's strong financial and operational performance since its landmark IPO on the Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange (ADX) in June 2024. Alef Education delivered strong financial results in FY 2024, reporting a net profit before tax of AED491.7 million, reflecting 6 percent year-on-year growth. With the expansion of Alef Education's footprint, now reaching 1.4 million students through innovative learning solutions, the Company reported Revenues of AED759.0 million. EBITDA surged by 5 percent year-on-year to reach AED512.2 million, reaffirming Alef Education's solid financial foundation supported by cost optimisation initiatives. The Company achieved an EBITDA margin of 67.5 percent, driven by strategic B2B partnerships and the resilience of long-term B2G contracts. Geoffrey Alphonso, Chief Executive Officer of Alef Education, commented, '2024 was a transformational year for Alef Education. Our successful IPO, swift inclusion in the MSCI UAE Small Cap Index, and our expanding strategic partnerships solidify our position as a leader in AI-powered education. As we continue to drive innovation and operational excellence, we remain committed to delivering long-term value for our shareholders, students, and stakeholders.' The AGM also highlighted key business development initiatives undertaken by the Company during FY 2024. As part of its growth strategy, Alef Education secured a contract worth more than AED30 million for a three-year period. Additionally, Alef Education partnered with MetaMetrics to develop Miqyas Al Dhad, an innovative tool designed to advance Arabic literacy across the Arab world. Alef Education has strengthened its presence having signed several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with ministries of education across multiple countries, facilitating the adoption of this new AI-powered Arabic literacy tool.
