Heading South: Russian EdTech Expands Across the Global South
Russian EdTech firms are scaling globally, bringing affordable, localized digital education to students in Asia, Latin America, and Africa.
As digital learning gains momentum in the Global South, Russian EdTech companies are increasingly making their mark on international markets. With a strong focus on affordability, quality, and localization, these companies are exporting online education in English, IT, and other critical skills. Many firms listed among Russia’s Top 35 EdTech leaders already have active partnerships abroad.
One standout success is Novakid, a digital platform specializing in English instruction for children. It has served over 500,000 users globally, with around 70,000 active learners. In just five years, Novakid has delivered more than 2.5 million interactive English lessons. By 2022, it was active in 49 countries.
In 2021, Novakid also launched the Easy Breezy Virtual Camp, an international summer camp that attracted nearly 7,000 children from over 40 countries—offering full participation and content access free of charge.
EdTech Platforms Scaling Up
GeekBrains, another global frontrunner, offers online courses in programming, data analytics, and software testing. Focused on upskilling from zero, it’s fostering a growing global community of tech professionals.
InternetUrok is also contributing to international education by delivering full K-12 programs online. The platform includes over 5,000 video lessons, 4,300 study guides, 6,300 tests, and 8,200 practice tools. As of the 2021/2022 academic year, nearly 20,000 students from more than 100 countries were enrolled in its “Home School” program.
Russian EdTech companies demonstrate a high degree of flexibility in localizing content. When entering new markets, they factor in digital literacy levels, internet access, and educational system structures—creating culturally relevant and pedagogically valuable content, not just translations.
These technologies are helping tackle one of the 21st century’s biggest challenges: educational inequality. In regions where access to quality schooling and higher education is limited, online platforms offer a lifeline. Thanks to low subscription costs and mobile-friendly formats, Russian EdTech provides learning opportunities for students who previously lacked traditional options.
Expanding Reach and Impact
Analysts, including those from Holon IQ, see strong export potential in Russian EdTech. The sector benefits from experienced teams, proven technologies, and advanced features such as AI and personalized learning. Demand continues to grow.
In Brazil, Russian companies are involved in school digitization pilots. Notably, Skillbox acquired a 90% stake in Brazilian online school Mentorama in 2021—the first Russian EdTech launch in the region.
In China, dialogue is underway on integrating Russian courses into local enrichment programs. For example, in 2022, ROBBO began adapting its educational tools for the Chinese market, translating materials and planning robotics clubs and STEM kits for public schools.
The export of Russian EdTech is more than a business venture—it’s part of a larger international cooperation strategy. By partnering with universities, governments, and private companies in the Global South, Russia is contributing to new educational ecosystems, knowledge sharing, and cross-border innovation.
