Sounds like you need to work on your germination. Seeds are created with everything they need within the seed, their own little backpack with enough gear(energy) to pop the soil, and for 2 leaves to sprout !! After which photosynthesis will take over. This initial stage can be difficult but with a little know-how, it gets easier.
First off you must understand the seed, it requires 3 triggers in order for it to start the process of germinating.
Darkness = Whether it's plain old soil or just 0 lights it must think it is in the "soil".
Warmth = Personally I go above 80 Fahrenheit, like a wee babe in the womb.
Moisture = The hard shell of the seed must be kept moist at all times during germination if the environment dries out too fast it will leave the medium and seed in trouble.
Buy some organic potting soil or seed starting soil... run it through a sifter to remove all chunky pieces or anything that might restrict the little seeds from penetrating the soil, this will leave you with very fine soil, light and fluffy.
Soak seeds in pure coconut water (natures embryotic fluid) it contains enzymes that help growth also, allow 24 hours to soak in a nice warm place, make sure it's not too hot but you want it cozy 77+ once the seeds have absorbed the fluid the shell should become soft enough to open, the seed should show its taproot if not that's ok, you can use the paper towel method too. whatever method you choose the 3 criteria to be met must be warmth, darkness, moisture.
Its also good to ask just a little airflow to stop any stagnation from taking hold, make sure the medium is not heavily watered, depending on the soil make sure it doesnt become thick with water and create a tough shell once dried. (gently till soil after light waters)