Inclusion isn’t truly inclusive if it requires privilege to participate.

Across Africa, millions of families are still locked out of digital financial systems — not because they lack intent or interest, but because the tools were never built with them in mind. Poor internet access, lack of smartphones, and minimal exposure to digital banking all create invisible walls that prevent meaningful participation in the digital economy, especially in the education sector.

At VeryPay, we believe contactless school payments should work for every parent, whether they live in a city with high-speed internet or in a rural village with only basic mobile coverage. Our vision for Cashless Schools has always been bold: to make it possible for every student to pay for meals, fees, transport, and more — without cash, without risk, and without friction.

Now, with our latest feature rollout, we’re taking a significant step forward in making that vision a reality.

1. USSD Access: Digital Payments Without Data

Smartphone apps are powerful — but what about parents who don’t own one? Or those living in areas with limited internet coverage? With our new USSD service, we’ve stripped away the dependency on mobile apps and internet connectivity.

Now, any parent with a basic mobile phone can:

• Register their child on the Cashless Schools platform
• Check their child’s balance
• Top up their account
• Pay school invoices
  

This means that even families in rural or underserved areas can participate in the digital, contactless school payment ecosystem, no app required. It’s not just digital inclusion, it’s equity in action.

2. Invoice Management + Autopay: Financial Clarity for Every Family

From the app, parents can now view specific invoices for:

• School meals
• Transportation
• Events or activity fees
• Token-based expenses
  

With Autopay, they can set up recurring payments to avoid late fees and service interruptions.

3. Real-Time Card Balance Tracking: Peace of Mind in Every Tap

Our NFC-enabled bracelets and cards already give students a secure, contactless way to pay for meals, books, and other school supplies. But now, with real-time balance tracking, parents can instantly see what’s left on their child’s card or bracelet.

Parents feel more informed. Students learn about managing limited resources. Everyone gains from a more transparent financial experience.

4. Vera – 24/7 In-App Support: Guidance Without Barriers

When systems get smarter, support should too. Many parents are new to digital systems, especially in emerging markets. Vera removes the intimidation factor and makes every parent feel equipped and supported. 

Our intelligent assistant, Vera, is now available in-app, 24/7. Whether a parent wants to link a new card, confirm a transaction, or unlock their child’s token, Vera offers friendly, human-like help at any hour.

Beyond Features: Designing for a Different Kind of Future

By building tools that work with or without internet, with real-time visibility, and contactless convenience, VeryPay is proving that digital transformation in education doesn’t have to leave anyone behind.

This is more than product development — it’s a reimagination of financial inclusion at the community level.

Contactless Payments, Seamless Futures

Every tap of a bracelet, every payment alert, every balance check — these are more than transactions. They’re lessons in trust, responsibility, and empowerment. They’re moments where technology meets humanity — and opens a door.

Cashless Schools by VeryPay isn’t just about moving money. It’s about moving forward — together.

Join the schools, parents, and communities already using our new features to build a smarter, safer, and more inclusive education experience.

This is what the future of inclusion looks like — and it’s contactless.

Ready to start? Request a demo or learn more at verypay.africa.