A New Approach to Interactive Learning

A new interactive learning platform, Otiya, has entered public beta with a model that seeks to transform learning from a conventional classroom activity into an engaging experience built around play, competition and social interaction. Developed by UK-based technology company Helixus Ltd, Otiya entered public beta in August 2026, ahead of a wider launch expected later in the year.

The platform brings learning, competition and social play together in a format designed for classrooms, workplaces, conferences, events, family gatherings and other informal settings. Its emergence comes at a time when digital learning and interactive technologies are increasingly becoming part of education, professional development and social engagement.

Unlike conventional learning platforms that primarily focus on delivering lessons and educational materials, Otiya is designed around participation, allowing users to learn while competing and interacting with others. The concept draws from the growing use of quizzes and interactive games as tools for keeping learners and audiences engaged, moving seamlessly between education and entertainment.

Versatility Across Professional and Social Settings

The versatility of the platform is one of its defining features, as the same basic experience can assume different purposes depending on the environment in which it is used. A teacher, for instance, can use the platform to revise a subject with students, while a company can deploy it during staff training or team-building sessions.

Similarly, conference organisers can use the platform to engage audiences, while families and friends can turn it into a social activity. A history quiz in a school can serve an educational purpose, while the same quiz at a family gathering can become entertainment. The platform also features a separate prize-draw element, providing additional opportunities for events, community activities and audience engagement.

African Identity in the Global Tech Space

Otiya's development reflects an attempt to bring African cultural identity into the global interactive learning and entertainment technology space. Its content areas include African music, food, history, geography and popular culture, alongside broader international topics. The name Otiya itself carries a Yoruba cultural reference, derived from the expression “Ó ti yá”, commonly used to indicate that it is time to begin or get moving.

Behind the platform is Olalekan Obisesan, a Nigerian technology entrepreneur and founder of Helixus Ltd, based in the United Kingdom. Obisesan's experience spans digital products, technology, public advocacy, community mobilisation and learning, with more than a decade of experience developing and leading programmes aimed at informing, involving and engaging people at scale.

Support and Market Positioning

Helixus is currently participating in the NatWest Accelerator and has received support through the West Yorkshire Combined Authority's AD:VENTURE programme, which provides support to businesses seeking to achieve their growth ambitions. These programmes have connected Helixus with entrepreneurs, technology specialists and business advisers as the company works towards introducing Otiya to a wider audience.

The public beta phase is expected to provide an opportunity for users to experience the platform, explore its content and offer feedback that could influence its continued development before the wider launch. As the distinction between learning and entertainment continues to narrow, Otiya positions itself at the intersection of education, technology, entertainment and culture.

Its African identity could provide an opportunity to differentiate the platform in a market with established international players, offering content that reflects African experiences while maintaining global relevance. The developers are betting on the idea that learning is more effective when people are encouraged to participate rather than simply receive information.