Edukoya shutdown has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian edtech sector as the once-promising startup ceases operations after three years. Citing poor infrastructure and economic difficulties, the digital learning platform announced its decision to shut down, stating that the market conditions made it impossible to scale.
Launched in 2021 with a vision to revolutionize K-12 digital education, Edukoya secured Africa’s largest pre-seed funding of $3.5 million. However, despite early success, the company struggled with limited internet penetration, high device costs, and declining disposable incomes, which hindered adoption and revenue growth.
Rather than continue in what it described as an unsustainable market, Edukoya chose to return capital to investors. The startup explored strategic alternatives, including partnerships, mergers, and business model pivots, but found no viable path forward.
With over 80,000 students onboarded, millions of practice questions answered, and thousands of live tutoring sessions conducted, Edukoya made a significant impact. However, its shutdown underscores the broader struggles facing Africa’s edtech industry, where startups grapple with infrastructure gaps and affordability constraints despite the sector’s high potential.
In its farewell statement, Edukoya expressed gratitude to its team, students, parents, and investors, acknowledging that while its journey has ended, the lessons learned could shape future innovations in Nigerian edtech—when the market is more conducive to growth.