The homework helper of the nation

Mr Marty, what is the status of the digitalisation of the school system in Switzerland?

I would give our country a maximum grade of 4! Things are better in Switzerland than in Germany. But it's not really good here either. The state has not yet managed to provide a national solution where pupils can find comprehensive learning materials that are adapted to the curriculum. This causes stress for parents and pupils, partly because only a few can afford private tuition.

How does this shortcoming come about?

Not least due to the federalist tradition in the Swiss school system. Cantons, schools and even teaching material publishers are trying to become «digital» in some way, but in an uncoordinated manner - and often at a beginner's level. This misery is expressed, for example, in the fact that kids at one school are equipped with an iPad. However, no thought is given to which software will run on the iPad.

How do you see your role here?

The idea behind evulpo is simple: we are building a digital learning world in which there is help for every school topic. This is thanks to thousands of explanatory videos, summaries and practice units. The learning materials are designed to teach a school subject quickly and thoroughly. So you get help with school material at the touch of a button, so to speak.

That doesn't exactly sound revolutionary!

The revolutionary aspect lies in the simplicity. Whatever you didn't understand at school - you can find support on the evulpo platform. With us, pupils can solve upcoming homework, study for their next exams or simply revise what they have covered at school.

How did the business idea come about?

Together with my co-founders, we set up the Schlaumacher tutoring school in 2017. Many pupils told us: «It would be great if you could upload your learning content to a platform. Then we would have your help with school material available at all times.» That was the initial spark for evulpo.

How do teachers react to your offer?

The reactions have been very positive. We are seeing a strong increase in the number of teachers using evulpo. And in some cases, entire school buildings are already making use of our programme. We are seen as an uncomplicated addition to traditional lessons.