“The solutions we need are often around us”- Abdul Mun-im Tamimu
We are thrilled to announce Abdul Mun-im Tamimu of Kumbungu Zamigu Spot as our Catalyst of the Month for August, a well-deserved recognition of his innovation, consistency, and dedication to both his Sparks and fellow Catalysts.
Abdul’s work exemplifies the spirit of EduSpots, building solutions from within the community while embracing digital growth opportunities.
Upon hearing the news, Abdul Mun-im described feeling “truly honoured and excited”, seeing the award not only as a personal milestone but as a reflection of the collective efforts of his Spot team and EduSpots’ leadership. For him, this achievement marks a shared commitment to enhancing learning outcomes and advancing the network’s vision for equitable education.
Throughout August, his motivation stemmed from the August and September Challenge, which focused on developing 21st-century skills, including digital literacy, coding, creative thinking, and problem-solving.
These goals resonated deeply with his personal aspirations to lead initiatives that promote quality education for all. He credits the DigiLit Strand for their creativity, noting how their work kept him and the Sparks fully engaged.
One of the initiatives he is most proud of is finding innovative ways to integrate locally available resources with digital learning tools. “At Kumbungu Zamigu Spot, nothing is wasted, and this philosophy drives Sparks to see learning materials all around them rather than relying solely on pre-provided tools”, he said. By encouraging Sparks to think creatively about what can be used, he ensures they are not passive consumers of knowledge but active participants in their own learning journey.
Alongside this, he has also taken pride in networking with fellow educators and offering pedagogical training for Catalysts from diverse backgrounds, strengthening the entire Spot community.
Of course, being a Catalyst comes with challenges. Access to appropriate teaching and learning materials, and sometimes even subject content knowledge, has not always been easy. Yet he has consistently turned obstacles into opportunities, making the most of Spot tablets and other digital resources while seeking guidance from fellow Catalysts such as Mr. Sayibu Abdul Rahim. This solution-focused mindset, asking for help, adapting, and innovating, has become his hallmark as a Catalyst.
Reflecting on his journey, he credits EduSpots with shaping him into a stronger leader and educator. “EduSpots has given me a 360° view of how pressing challenges of our society can be addressed with small efforts within the community and individuals,” he shared.
More than a program, he sees EduSpots as a journey of self-discovery, a platform of mentorship, and a supportive community that supports Catalysts and Sparks to create a Collective Future.
To his fellow Catalysts, Abdul Mun-im advised, “Individually, you can achieve much for yourself and your community, but together we can accomplish far more. Let’s keep working collectively to create a brighter future. Be a Catalyst that catalyses everything: your community’s growth and development.”
Looking ahead, Abdul Mun-im dreams of working with leadership and Spot teams to establish career development networks for both Catalysts and Sparks. By connecting with developmental partners, he hopes to expand opportunities for learners and communities beyond the immediate scope of the Spot, creating ripple effects of growth and empowerment.
We celebrate Abdul Mun-im not only for his outstanding commitment in August but also for his work at Kumbungu Zamigu Spot, reminding us that “the solutions we need are often around us” and with the right mindset, even the simplest resources can bring about extraordinary change.
Congratulations, Abdul Mun-im Tamimu! May you continue to inspire your fellow Catalysts and learners across the network.