Baalty is an educational computer game for children and teenagers that teaches the business skills, business ethics, and entrepreneurialism necessary for starting and growing a small business in Egypt. 

The game uses simulation and experiential learning by trial and error to help users understand the dynamics of establishing and building a sustainable retail enterprise.  The word “ba’alty” means “my shop” in Egyptian Arabic.  Learners begin the game as young entrepreneurs with a small loan from a family member that allows them to set up a small retail stand in an inexpensive part of town, and gradually build their product line, shop quality, employee base, and overall business success.  To do so requires a combination of good business management, effective understanding of the market, basic accounting, credit management, equitable and fair employment practices, workplace safety, and a willingness to overcome various obstacles that arise.

Ba’alty creates a learning environment in which users grow in their understanding and application of many of the skills necessary to engage effectively in small and medium enterprise development, and in doing so increase their ability to create better employment opportunities for themselves in real life.  Crosscutting themes of gender equality and child protection are incorporated throughout the game.  Ba’alty’s program interface is in Arabic, and the whole game has been carefully designed to reflect a “look and feel” that is authentic to the environment in which young people in Egypt find themselves.

The game was developed by the PPIC-Work (Promoting and Protecting the Interests of Children who Work) project in consultation with working children in Aswan, Egypt.  The project is funded by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).  Ba’alty was conceived, designed, and programmed in Egypt during the period spanning from April 2004 to February 2008.

For more information on the game, contact me at andrew at andrewdempsey dot com.