Econet Wireless Zimbabwe has unveiled an interactive and educational tool designed to foster a love for learning while developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills among children.

The new kids' gaming platform makes education fun by offering a rich collection of games with educational content, carefully curated to support children's cognitive growth in engaging ways. 

Econet said the platform focuses on foundational skills such as reading, writing and mathematics, while also stimulating creativity and logical thinking through playful yet structured activities.

"Our new Kids Gaming Platform represents a step forward in combining technology with education to offer children an interactive way to learn," Econet said in a statement. 

"Through the platform, we hope to inspire a love of learning in children while helping them build essential skills that will benefit them throughout their lives."The launch of the new platform comes at a time when digital learning tools are rapidly gaining popularity across the African continent. 

In 2022, there were an estimated 180 million gamers in Africa, including Zimbabwe, with about 30% of them being children. By 2025, the number is projected to rise to 200 million. Gaming has become a key source of entertainment and social interaction for Zimbabwean children, providing a valuable outlet for both recreation and educational development.

In response to this growing trend, Econet’s platform is designed to offer a unique blend of education and entertainment, positioning itself as a valuable resource for parents and educators looking to integrate modern technology into the learning environment. “With its variety of math puzzles, reading exercises, and interactive stories, the platform enhances children's cognitive skills in an enjoyable and stimulating manner,” Econet said.

“The platform is not just about fun — it's about learning in a way that feels natural to children. By offering educational games that require critical thinking and creative problem-solving, we are challenging kids to explore different scenarios, make decisions, and find solutions.”Complementing the games is a collection of educational videos that cover a wide range of topics, from basic literacy and numeracy to science, making learning both interactive and accessible.

"The platform can be accessed online on https://mykidzhub.econet.co.zw using any device, allowing children to engage with the content at home or on the go," Econet added. 

"The flexibility ensures that learning doesn’t stop, whether children are using smartphones, tablets, or computers."All the games and videos on the platform have been carefully vetted to ensure they are educationally valuable and appropriate for young users. The content aligns with the developmental needs of children, offering a safe and supportive environment where they can grow and thrive academically.Beyond academics, the platform also plays a significant role in developing crucial life skills such as teamwork, social interaction, and emotional intelligence. 

With a child-friendly interface designed for easy navigation, children can easily explore the platform, selecting the games they wish to interact with. The intuitive design makes the learning experience both fun and user-friendly, ensuring that children can focus on their growth and development without being bogged down by complicated tech.