Starring AWS, Shakira, HP, Cambridge University and more: ETIH rolls out the biggest education technology news stories of the week
The world of edtech continues to evolve with exciting developments and tools that are reshaping classrooms and learning experiences.
At ETIH, we’re dedicated to bringing you the latest updates, insights, and innovations that can help educators and students make the most out of today’s technology.
Let’s dive into this week’s top stories:
RTIH Innovation Awards
Our sister site, Retail Technology Innovation Hub, is gearing up for its annual RTIH Innovation Awards!
If your company operates in both the education and retail tech spaces, this is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your achievements and innovation.
The awards recognise excellence in omnichannel, AI, and sustainable retail technology solutions—areas where many edtech companies also excel.
The deadline for entries is 25th October, and you can enter across multiple categories.
Transact and CBORD reveal new leadership team to drive innovation after merger
Transact Campus and The CBORD Group have announced the formation of a new Executive Leadership Team following the merger of the two companies earlier this year.
The newly appointed leadership team, led by Nancy Langer as CEO, aims to drive innovation and improve operational efficiency across the education, healthcare, and corporate sectors, continuing the company’s mission of delivering mobile-first, cloud-based technology solutions.
Sodexo opens four New frictionless eat>NOW stores at U.S. universities using AWS technology
Sodexo has announced the opening of four new eat>NOW frictionless convenience stores across several university campuses in the United States.
These new stores are located at the University of Maine-Orono ; Lindenwood University ; Endicott College; and Seattle Pacific University.
The eat>NOW stores are powered by Amazon Web Services (AWS) AWS) technology, enabling a frictionless shopping experience for students.
“We’re thrilled to introduce eat>NOW frictionless stores to the vibrant university campuses we’re proud to partner with,” said Brett Ladd, CEO of Sodexo Campus and Government.
Shakira partners with Code.org and Amazon to promote computer science education for Hispanic youth
Global popstar Shakira has partnered with Code.org and Amazon to promote computer science education for Hispanic youth as part of a new initiative launched during Hispanic Heritage Month.
Through her foundation, Fundación Pies Descalzos , Shakira has long advocated for educational equity across Latin America.
Hadi Partovi, CEO and co-founder of Code.org, stated:
"Computer science is about more than just coding; it's about teaching students the problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking skills that are essential in today's digitally-driven world.
Victor Reinoso, Global Director of Amazon's philanthropic education initiatives, highlighted the company’s commitment:
“At Amazon, we believe access to high-quality computer science education is crucial for preparing all students, especially those from underrepresented communities, to thrive in the digital economy.”
HP and Cambridge University expand EdTech Fellowship to Central and Eastern Europe, Central Asia
HP has teamed up with Cambridge University Press & Assessment & Assessment to expand their Education Technology Fellowship, inviting leaders from Central and Eastern Europe and Central Asia to join the programme.
Steve King, Head of Education Reform at Cambridge University Press & Assessment, expressed enthusiasm for the expansion:
"In Central Europe, Eastern Europe and in Central Asia I constantly observe fast-paced change in education. We're excited to bring more fresh, pioneering minds into the EdTech Fellowship.
Mayank Dhingra, Senior Education Business Leader at HP, commented on the importance of engaging new participants:
"Our EdTech Fellows are phenomenal people and leaders. They're driving powerful shared understanding of how to use EdTech effectively while remaining highly responsive to local contexts.
Rocket Learning secures Google.org support to launch AI Tutor for early childhood education in India
Rocket Learning, a nonprofit focused on early childhood education, has announced a new initiative to develop an AI-powered learning tool aimed at underserved children in India.
Supported by Google Fellows, the tool, named Saheli, is designed to create personalised learning experiences for children aged 3 to 6, helping to improve school readiness across the country.
“We’re thrilled to receive funding and pro bono support from Google.org to enable all children in India to reach their fullest potential and boost their collective IQ,” said Vishal Sunil, CTO and co-founder of Rocket Learning., CTO and co-founder of Rocket Learning.
“Working with Rocket Learning, since our $1.5M financial award to the nonprofit, has reiterated the life-changing work they are doing to provide preschool education to millions of children,” said Sebastien Floodpage, Program Manager at Google.org.
Perlego secures $20 Million investment to advance AI-powered learning solutions
Edtech company Perlego has raised $20 million in its latest funding round, led by former Tesco CEO Sir Terry Leahy.
Perlego has launched Dialogo, a new research assistant currently in Beta, as part of its AI development strategy. The tool is designed to help students navigate and utilise Perlego’s extensive library efficiently.
Gauthier Van Malderen, CEO and founder of Perlego, expressed enthusiasm for the company’s next steps:
“This investment represents a vital opportunity to drive meaningful change in education and AI more broadly. We’re passionate about providing accessible yet game-changing solutions to education.
New K-12 Mental Health Tech Navigator helps schools select digital tools for student well-being
A new online resource has been launched to assist schools in selecting and implementing digital tools designed to support student mental health.
The K-12 Mental Health Tech Navigator, created by HeadStream Inc in partnership with The Jed Foundation (JED) and The Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute, will help school administrators across the U.S. identify the right products to enhance mental health services in schools.
“As a former district leader myself, I have seen the need for innovative and flexible solutions when dealing with the complexity of student mental health,” said Tony J. Walker, PhD, Senior Vice President of Academic Programmes at JED.
