The MENA region is at a critical juncture, facing a significant mismatch between traditional education systems and the evolving demands of the global job market. This skills gap leaves many young Arabs unprepared for high-growth careers, but a dynamic wave of EdTech startups is rising to meet this challenge head-on, delivering innovative solutions to equip the next generation for success.
Strengthening Educational Foundations
At the forefront of transforming foundational learning is Jordan’s Abwaab, an online platform dedicated to the K-12 segment. Founded in 2019, Abwaab provides students with a comprehensive library of video lessons, continuous assessments, and tailored learning paths that align with national curricula across several MENA countries. By making high-quality education more accessible and affordable, the platform is building the strong academic base necessary for future professional achievement.
“Our mission is to unleash the potential of our generation,” says co-founder Hamdi Tabbaa. “We believe technology can democratize education and provide students with the tools they need to succeed.”
Upskilling the Professional Workforce
Targeting professionals and lifelong learners, UAE-based Almentor offers an extensive library of video courses and talks delivered by top Arab mentors and industry experts. The platform focuses on providing practical, job-ready skills in fields like digital marketing, software development, leadership, and entrepreneurship. By offering its content primarily in Arabic, Almentor effectively removes language barriers and opens up professional development opportunities to a broader audience throughout the region.
Building Guaranteed Pathways to Tech Careers
Egypt’s Sprints is directly tackling the tech talent shortage with its intensive, cohort-based bootcamps. The company offers guaranteed hiring programs in high-demand specializations such as artificial intelligence, data science, and cybersecurity. Sprints distinguishes itself by partnering with leading companies to place its graduates, creating a direct and reliable pipeline from education to employment and aligning its success with that of its students.
“We don’t just teach skills; we build careers,” explains founder Ayman Bazaraa. “Our model aligns our success with the success of our students, which is to get them hired in top tech jobs.”
About Abwaab
Abwaab is a Jordan-based EdTech startup that provides an online learning platform for K-12 students in the MENA region. It offers curriculum-aligned lessons, assessments, and personalized learning journeys to make education accessible and effective.
About Almentor
Based in the UAE, Almentor is an online video learning platform offering courses and talks from experts and mentors in Arabic. It focuses on personal and professional development, covering a wide range of topics to help individuals advance their careers.
About Sprints
Sprints is an Egypt-based EdTech company specializing in intensive tech bootcamps. It offers a unique talent-as-a-service model with a guaranteed hiring program, connecting graduates with employment opportunities in top technology fields.
Source: MEA TechWatch
