UI Maintains Academic Leadership, Partners with Astria Learning for 100% Online Degrees

The University of Ibadan has signed a major Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Astria Learning (E campus Inc.), an international ed-tech company, to launch a wide range of 100% online academic programs.

In his remarks, while receiving a delegation from the organisation for the signing of the MoU, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, described the partnership as the beginning of what he considers, an enduring and mutually beneficial relationship. He noted that the proposal for the project was thoroughly debated before eventually receiving the approval of the University Senate, depicting how much consideration was given into the partnership and the attendant implications.

Professor Adebowale reiterated the University’s position as a lead Institution in Africa, which continues to seek ways of impacting society more, and making education more accessible. He stated that the partnership will initially focus on postgraduate programs before expanding to the undergraduate level based on its success. 

Dr. Jeff Bordes, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Astria Learning, thanked the University management for the warm reception. He revealed that the partnership had been in the making since September last year. He described the signing of the MoU as a proud moment and expressed optimism that it will create a win-win situation and build an enduring partnership that will greatly expand access to quality education.

The MoU, which will run for an initial period of ten (10) years, will enable the University of Ibadan to offer 100% online programs including MBAs, Master’s degrees, PhDs, DBAs, and various professional certificate courses in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Fintech, Energy Law, and Sustainable Development.

Under the agreement, Astria Learning will provide the learning management system, digital library resources, marketing, student support services, and bear the operational costs, while the University of Ibadan will provide curricula, ensure quality assurance, maintain accreditation, and award certificates and degrees. 

The meeting, which was in hybrid mode, with some staff of Astrial Learning attending virtually had other staff of the organization in physical attendance along with Dr Bordes. These include Mrs. Kseniia Tkachenko, the Global Operations Manager; Ms. Ana Eristavi, the Global Operations Coordinator and Ms Tolu Omorogbe.