Agilix Labs Secures AWS Education Equity Grant for Finder Program in Sierra Leone

Introduction

Agilix Labs, a prominent educational technology company, has announced that it has received a significant grant from Amazon Web Services (AWS) under their Education Equity Initiative. This grant will enable the implementation of the Finder program in Sierra Leone, aimed at empowering local youth through technology and artificial intelligence. The initiative is being managed by the Future Learning Institute (FLI), which Agilix Labs established in 2025 in partnership with the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education in Sierra Leone.

The Finder Program

The Grant will facilitate the launch of the Finder program, which is designed to support young individuals in Sierra Leone who meet the criteria for university admission but are unable to secure a place. The program targets marginalized groups, including young women, students with disabilities, and individuals from rural areas or low-income families. The FLI is set to formally launch this initiative on November 10, 2026, at the newly established Community Learning Center located at the Jui Campus of Freetown Polytechnic.

In the context of this program, a 'Finder' refers to a young person within the community who becomes a resource for others seeking information or support. Utilizing artificial intelligence tailored to fit local contexts, Finders review inquiries and provide actionable solutions that can benefit various community stakeholders such as farmers, traders, and educators.

Goals and Objectives

The overarching objective of the Finder program is to ensure equitable access to opportunities for the youth in Sierra Leone. As Hon. Dr. Haja Ramatulai Wurie, the Minister of Technical and Higher Education, emphasized, the goal is to create a more inclusive society where all young people can flourish regardless of their backgrounds. Mustapha Turay, president of the centers FLI in Sierra Leone, also noted the importance of leveraging local knowledge and skills to benefit the community.

Implementation Strategy

Throughout the one-year program, participants will address questions and issues raised by local businesses and community groups. They will utilize AI technology to discover effective solutions and address community needs. The lessons will be delivered through the Agilix Dawn platform, which is designed to function effectively even in areas with limited internet connectivity. The AI tasks performed by students will be executed through AWS using Amazon Bedrock, thus enabling secure and efficient operations.

Foundational Goals and Future Outlook

Curt Allen, co-founder and CEO of Agilix Labs, reiterated the organization's commitment to facilitating job access for young people eager to learn but lacking proper platforms for education. With the opening of the Freetown community center, the FLI aims to create meaningful employment opportunities for the youth through innovative educational approaches. The program not only prepares participants for jobs but also instills a sense of service towards their communities.

Conclusion

As Agilix Labs gears up for the official launch of the Finder program, the anticipation within the community is palpable. The commitment to weaving technology with community support underscores a critical shift towards a more equitable educational landscape in Sierra Leone. By harnessing AI and local talent, the Finder program aspires to redefine the narrative around education access and empowerment in the region, setting a benchmark for similar initiatives worldwide.