Smart, BDA, FEU Tech partner for Islamic kindergarten app

Smart Communications has partnered with the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA) and Far Eastern University Institute of Technology to develop a learning app for Muslim kids in conflict-affected areas in Mindanao.

The app, which will feature fun stories and games, will be aligned with the Tahderiyyah kindergarten curriculum implemented in Islamic schools. It is expected to be launched within the year, for free download from Google Play.

The Tahderiyyah app project is part of Smart’s broader effort to enhance Filipino education through mobile and digital technology. Smart is also helping create learning apps in different local languages. Studies show that the managed use of digital learning tools and content can improve the literacy skills of children and heighten their interest in learning.

Under the partnership, the BDA will provide content which FEU information technology and multimedia students will digitize and animate. To equip the students for the job, Smart organized animation, sound design, and sound production workshops facilitated by experts from OrangeFix and Click Multimedia Studio. Smart will also help transform the digitized content into an app.

Groups who want to partner with Smart to develop localized literacy apps in other languages may send an email to TechnoCart@smart.com.ph

Photo shows (from left) BDA executive director Mohammad Yacob, FEU Institute of Technology executive director Benson Tan, and Smart vice president for community partnerships Darwin Flores.