Breaking the English Language Barrier to Employability: Why We Invested in BlackBoard Radio | Omidyar Network India
Summary
Global studies have found that almost 50% of employers offer a better starting package to applicants with good English language skills and India is no exception to this. It is leveraging the increasing penetration of the internet by providing interactive English learning courses over basic smartphones, customised as per the stage of career and requirements of the professional.Founded by Vatsal Dusad who identified the need for such a product throught his own struggles with English skills or lack thereof growing up, Blackboard Radio has created an assisted learning solution which helps its learners not only to read, write and understand English but also improve their public speaking, interview skills and overall confidence through curated micro-sessions, interactive workshops, and other features such as daily news, vocabulary practice, and 1:1 sessions with an instructor and career mentor. These exercises help these professionals learn and use English in a practical way that can be integrated seamlessly into their daily lives and corporate activities.Blackboard Radio doesnt believe in a one size fits all strategy and instead offers its courses as per the stage of career of the learner. This unique approach allows fast tracked progress for the learner and clear mapping of outcomes for BBR and a continuous feedback loop.Blackboard Radio uses its platform to help English become a daily learning and speaking routine. Over time, users develop the confidence to speak in English and have the opportunity to use it to their advantage.Blackboard Radios goal is aligned with our vision of helping to create meaningful lives for the Next Half Billion by harnessing the power of technology and the internet.