Google, Broda Shaggi Launch AI-Powered Folktale Book to Boost Learning for Underserved Children in Lagos
Google, in partnership with Slum2School Africa and Nigerian comedian Samuel Perry, has launched a culturally themed folktale colouring book titled Stories from Our Home aimed at supporting children in underserved communities.
The initiative, powered by Google’s Gemini technology, is designed to bridge gaps in access to creative educational materials by distributing 1,000 copies of the book to primary school pupils. It responds to the shortage of learning tools in many nursery and primary classrooms, where children often lack basic resources such as colouring books and crayons.
The project involved a collaborative creative process that reimagined African folklore into print-ready illustrations using generative AI. Nigerian creatives, including Falz and Layi Wasabi, participated in an “Imagination Workshop” where they shared cultural stories and childhood experiences. These narratives were then transformed into child-friendly visual content rooted in Nigerian heritage.
The final publication was produced by Inked Memory to meet educational and child-focused standards. According to Slum2School Africa’s founder, Otto Orondaam, the project reflects a commitment to using education as a tool to break the cycle of poverty, emphasizing that early exposure to stories and learning materials plays a key role in child development.
The book was unveiled at the Slum2School Innovation Hub in Lekki, Lagos, where children participated in interactive reading sessions. Google West Africa Director Olumide Balogun read a story on the Great Rivers of Nigeria, while guest readers such as Nancy Isime and Bisola Aiyeola shared stories highlighting Nigerian heritage.
Each participating child also received a “Dream Pack” containing the colouring book, crayons, notebooks, pencils, and educational games to encourage creativity and learning. At the event, Akintunde Daniella emerged winner of a painting contest and was rewarded with a bicycle and other prizes.
The initiative highlights the role of storytelling, creativity, and technology in enhancing early childhood education while promoting cultural identity and inclusive learning opportunities.
