Lagos: Slum2School Africa, in collaboration with Nigerian creatives and Google, has unveiled a culturally themed folktale colouring book for children, created using Gemini, a generative artificial intelligence tool. The initiative aims to address the scarcity of early learning materials available to primary school pupils in underserved communities.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Founder of Slum2School Africa, Otto Orondaam, highlighted that the initiative focuses on promoting early childhood learning and cultural identity among Nigerian children. Orondaam emphasized that access to culturally relevant learning materials is limited for many children, and the project plans to distribute 1,000 copies of the book to its intended audience. The initiative addresses educational and identity gaps, while also aiding in the development of essential cognitive skills such as fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and concentration.
Olumide Balogun, Director of Google West Africa, stated that the project showcases the practical application of artificial intelligence in supporting education and cultural preservation. Balogun noted that Gemini aids in transforming ideas from Nigerian creatives into child-friendly illustrations without compromising originality. He affirmed that the initiative aligns with Google’s commitment to making technology accessible and beneficial in solving real-world challenges.
The project involved contributions from well-known creatives such as Comedian Samuel Animashaun Perry, also known as Broda Shaggi, Falz, Tobi Bakre, Tomike Adeoye, VJ Adams, among others. It was developed during an imagination workshop at Google’s Nigeria office, where participants shared indigenous stories, legends, and cultural experiences. These narratives were then translated into illustrations using Gemini, with the final publication managed by Inked Memory, a storytelling company.
Perry expressed that his involvement stemmed from personal experience and a desire to support children who lack access to basic educational tools. “I know what it means for a child to lack basic learning materials, and this project is a way to give back and support the next generation,” he said.
The colouring book features stories such as Queen Moremi, the Walls of Benin, Rivers Niger and Benue, Argungu Fishing Festival, and the New Yam Festival. Slum2School Africa plans to distribute the books as part of ‘Dream Packs’ containing crayons and writing materials to support early learning in underserved communities.