Ubongo, a leading organisation that merges education with entertainment, has proudly announced the launch of Season Five of its popular program, Akili and Me. With its educational initiatives, including Akili and Me and Ubongo Kids, Ubongo has reached over 48 million children throughout Africa. This new season brings a fresh visual style and a stronger focus on emotional development for young viewers.
This season, designed to enhance early childhood education, emphasises Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). It incorporates music, storytelling, and interactive segments to help children understand, express, and navigate their emotions effectively.
Tamala Maerere-Kateka, Senior Strategic Communications Manager at Ubongo, shared, “With Season Five, we aimed to move beyond mere ABCs and 123s. Our goal is to help children comprehend and articulate their feelings.”
She added, “When children learn to manage their emotions, it fosters the confidence and resilience necessary for academic and life success.”
The latest season features redesigned characters brought to life using advanced animation techniques, creating a more vibrant and emotionally engaging experience for children and their caregivers. Akili and her friends radiate colour and expressiveness, strengthening the connection to the young audience.
Additionally, Ubongo has broadened its educational reach by launching Akili and Me Games on the Ubongo Playroom app. This interactive platform includes educational videos, audio stories, digital books, and games, enabling children to learn through play and enhancing their engagement.
Maerere-Kateka emphasised, “Children learn best when they can play. By incorporating interactive elements, we empower kids to participate actively in their learning journey.”
More than just a television series, Akili and Me has evolved into a child’s first classroom, a dependable companion, and a pathway to lifelong learning. With this new season, Ubongo continues to make early education enjoyable, accessible, and impactful for children across Africa and beyond.
“Hefty emotions can often feel daunting for young ones, but equipping children with the vocabulary and tools to express themselves instils confidence to tackle life’s challenges,” Maerere-Kateka concluded.
