I have never solved a problem for millions in Africa, but I have solved problems for hundreds that work with children - and I found that understanding is the crucial first step that is sometimes completely ignored.
Some people get good ideas and they try to force them upon a group. Unfortunately, good ideas are only valuable if all of the correct variables line-up. For example, teachers are inundated with new teaching techniques all the time. These solutions sometimes completely ignore that the teachers have been working with some form of success for some period of time. This makes a push-technique insulting. In addition, the reality of the classroom changes from school to school and making a guess as to what is going to work without physically witnessing the situation is dangerous.
A better approach is to ask the teachers what they need before assuming that your idea is going to help them. This way, you can adapt your product, solution or idea to something that is useful - or at least help lay the groundwork to make your vision a reality. Actually visiting the site and becoming aware of the look, feel and real-life conditions will only strengthen your end product and help ensure success.
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