Key Points:
- Siakam EdTech Engine drives a new wave of innovation in digital learning and classroom engagement.
- The platform expands accessibility through advanced adaptive tools and personalized learning features.
- Educators report improved student outcomes as the technology continues scaling across institutions.
Former Toronto Raptors player Pascal Siakam visited Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) to announce the second installment of his Siakam EdTech Engine. The program is run in partnership with TMU’s startup incubator DMZ and aims to support new education-focused start-ups. This project continues Siakam’s efforts to improve learning access and strengthen opportunities for students in different parts of the world.
The first cohort of the Siakam EdTech Engine helped a group of early-stage companies develop digital education tools for classrooms. After seeing strong results, Siakam and DMZ are now preparing a new group of start-ups with a focus on AI-driven learning. The goal is to help young people gain skills that match a fast-changing workforce shaped by technology.
Siakam said young learners will face a world where digital tools and artificial intelligence are part of everyday life. He explained that the program’s second phase will support start-ups that help students understand these tools at an early age. He also said giving students a strong foundation in emerging technology can help them feel prepared for future careers and new learning styles through the Siakam EdTech Engine.
Focus on AI Learning and Youth Upskilling
The updated program places new attention on AI-powered teaching platforms and tools that help young people build confidence in digital skills. This shift reflects rising interest in interactive and adaptable learning systems. These tools can adjust to a student’s pace, help them practice safely, and support teachers with classroom planning.
Several companies from the first cohort showed strong early results. Cyber Legends created digital safety learning resources for students. English Islands developed tools to help young learners build language and communication skills. These start-ups partnered closely with teachers, principals, and school boards during their development. Their classroom use showed how technology can support instruction without replacing real educators, reinforcing the purpose of the Siakam EdTech Engine.
Siakam said hearing how these tools helped students reinforced why he wanted to expand the program. He also noted that the impact depends on the effort of educators who help test and refine the tools in real classrooms.
Continuing a Global Education Mission
Siakam’s foundation, PS43, aims to give young people access to learning and growth opportunities. He said the work is inspired by his father’s belief in education. The foundation supports students in the three regions that are meaningful to Siakam: Indiana, Toronto, and Cameroon. Through the , reinforcing the purpose of the Siakam EdTech Engine. partnership, the foundation has been able to support ideas that turn into practical tools for classrooms.
Siakam said the most meaningful part of this work is seeing the number of students reached by different start-ups. He shared that many young people have benefited from projects launched in the first cohort. The hope for the second cohort is to expand this reach and introduce new ideas that help the next generation of students learn with confidence.
Support From Teachers and School Leaders
Educators play an important role in testing and improving new learning tools. Siakam recognized teachers and school leaders who supported the first cohort. One example is principal Lorraine Van Zon of Bishop Macdonell Catholic School, who helped champion early classroom pilots. Siakam said the dedication of educators shows how important it is for start-ups to work closely with the people who understand students’ needs firsthand.
He added that continued collaboration between start-ups, teachers, and school districts will help shape better learning tools over the next decade. The program’s purpose is to create long-term improvements in how students explore new subjects, build skills, and adapt to technology. The Siakam EdTech Engine will continue driving this mission.
Siakam said the foundation also has other education-focused projects in progress in Indiana and Cameroon. More details will be shared as the initiatives develop, but the main goal remains the same: expanding opportunities for young learners and supporting the people who teach them every day, strengthened by the Siakam EdTech Engine.