A South African education technology company is making waves on the global stage after securing a place on TIME’s World’s Top EdTech Companies 2026 list, highlighting the growing potential of locally built innovation in the international market.
It comes after Teach Me 2, a tutoring platform that connects learners with qualified tutors, has delivered more than one million tutoring lessons and now supports over 10 000 families across a range of subjects, from Grade 1 through to university level.
Lessons are available both online and in person, with the company focusing on personalised learning designed to build confidence while addressing educational gaps.
The recognition comes as South African startups continue to navigate a challenging business landscape, making international milestones like this relatively uncommon.
Teach Me 2 said its inclusion on TIME‘s annual ranking reflects not only the company’s growth but also the ability of South African businesses to compete with some of the world’s leading education technology firms.
From local classrooms to global growth
Founder and CEO Nick Miller believes the achievement sends an encouraging message to entrepreneurs across the country.
‘We have exceptional people in this country who can solve difficult problems, build enduring businesses and compete internationally. The environment isn’t always easy, but globally relevant education technology can absolutely be built from South Africa.’
Miller credits two major decisions for changing the company’s trajectory. One was investing heavily in technology around 2017 to improve tutor matching, customer support and learning outcomes.
The other was building robust online tutoring capabilities years before the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated demand for remote learning, allowing the business to expand into more than 50 countries.
The company says its success has also been shaped by a strong focus on solving real educational challenges rather than chasing technology trends, alongside a rigorous tutor selection process that prioritises both academic ability and character.
One example shared by Miller illustrates that philosophy. An investor reviewing Teach Me 2 documents on a flight was unexpectedly approached by another passenger who recognised the company name and described its service as life-changing for their family, a moment Miller says reinforced the value of putting customers first.
Looking ahead, the company believes artificial intelligence will enhance education rather than replace teachers and tutors.
‘Many years in tutoring have taught us that effective learning is not simply about access to information. Learners also need someone who can identify where they are struggling, adapt to them, encourage them and hold them accountable.’
As discussions around AI continue to reshape education globally, Teach Me 2 says the future lies in combining technology with meaningful human support to make personalised learning more accessible.
The company adds that international recognition is an important milestone, but sees it as motivation to continue growing from its South African roots.
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