Google, Slum2School Unveil AI-Powered Folktale Book for Underserved Pupils

Google has partnered with Slum2School Africa and a group of Nigerian creatives to launch “Stories from Our Home,” a culturally themed folktale and colouring book designed to improve access to learning materials among children in underserved communities.

The initiative unveiled in Lagos will see 1,000 copies of the book distributed to primary school pupils, alongside educational supplies, as part of efforts to address the shortage of creative learning tools in nursery and early education classrooms.

The project leveraged Google’s artificial intelligence tool, Google Gemini, to transform African folklore into print-ready illustrations. Popular content creator Samuel Animashaun Perry, alongside Falz and Layi Wasabi, contributed to the storytelling process during an Imagination Workshop where cultural narratives were reinterpreted into visual art for children.

Founder of Slum2School Africa, Otto Orondaam, said the initiative aligns with the organisation’s mission to break the cycle of poverty through education.

“At Slum2School Africa, we have always believed that education is the most powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty,” Orondaam said. “Stories from Our Home is an extension of everything we stand for, ensuring that every child, no matter where they are born, has access to the resources and the identity that will shape their future.”

The unveiling, held at the Slum2School Innovation Hub in Lagos, featured interactive reading sessions with children. Google’s West Africa Director, Olumide Balogun, led a storytelling session, reading “The Great Rivers of Nigeria,” while actresses Nancy Isime and Bisola Aiyeola engaged pupils with stories highlighting cultural heritage, including the Walls of Benin and Queen Moremi Ajasoro.

Speaking at the event, Broda Shaggi reflected on his childhood experiences and the importance of access to basic educational tools.

“I know what it feels like to grow up without these things. I know what it means when a child does not have the basic tools that others take for granted. That experience never leaves you, and it is why I am committed to doing whatever I can to make sure young people today do not have to go through what I went through,” he said.

Meanwhile, each beneficiary received a “Dream Pack” containing the colouring book, crayons, notebooks, pencils and educational games, aimed at enhancing creativity and foundational learning skills such as focus and fine motor development.

The organisers noted that by combining technology with indigenous storytelling, the initiative not only promotes literacy but also reinforces cultural identity among young learners in disadvantaged communities.