The DigiBot - The First Mobile Learning Platform To Teach 100 000 Learners In 6 Months

Leveraging the power of WhatsApp's accessibility and low data costs, the DigiBot is the world’s first mobile learning platform designed to sit within WhatsApp, and enables free, accessible interactive learning to anyone with a phone. Using an advanced WhatsApp user experience, the platform allows for comprehensive, gamified learning curriculums aiming at upskilling young entrepreneurs with the tools they need to close the digital divide and help them find jobs.

Our primary target audience is young African entrepreneurs between the ages of 19 and 35, who are looking for a way to upskill themselves professionally. By leveraging WhatsApp's wide user-base, the learners are already familiar with the user experience, making content even easier for them to consume. Certificates are issued to every learner upon completion which can then be shared on their professional networks, or added to their CV’s. Event tracking and feedback surveys pull into a dashboard so that the bot is constantly updated and tailored to the learner’s experience.

Over the course of 6 months, the DigiBot underwent a series of feedback loops and learning design workshops where an advanced WhatsApp LMS (Learning Management System) and Content Management System were created. These systems were specifically designed for WhatsApp and are informed by user engagement and feedback surveys collected from learners. Three learning bots were created, each with their own personalities, interactive content, quizzes, leaderboards, badges, and certificates - making the DigiBot a truly unique, tailored learning experience. Engagement with the bots was driven by a triad of efforts that included a marketing push on social with Click-To-Chat Media Units direct to WhatsApp, strategic partnerships with UNISA and the DBE, and a strong PR campaign detailing the impact of the bots. Since the launch of the bots, over 200 000 learners across Africa have engaged with the bots and over 100 000 learners have received certificates of completion.

The DigiBot has far exceeded the reach and impact of face-to-face learning with the following results received in under just 6 months:

100 000 certified learners

48% completion rate

99% satisfaction rate

Over 100 million messages were sent in total

Over 1 million topics were completed in total

Over 21 years' worth of content consumed in just 6 months

“I’ve never seen a learning solution that can reach this many people in such an innovative way - it’s really exciting.” Phil Oduor | Policy Programs Manager for Economic Impact and Digital Literacy, Meta Africa

“At Facebook, we’re proud to see how the DigiBot continues to empower the next generation of marketers in Africa with digital marketing skills to grow their ideas and businesses.” Elizma Nolte | Head of Marketing, Meta SA