Unicaf is a leading online higher education platform headquartered in Europe, with students spread across 158 countries. The state-of-the-art digital platform from Unicaf provides access to the best quality university degree programs and professional courses from several reputable partner institutions spread across U.S., U.K., and Africa. Led by its CEO, Nicos Nicolaou, the online platform also facilitates Higher Education studies at an affordable cost.
A partner of Liverpool John Moores University, the University of east London, the University of Suffolk, the University of California, Riverside Extension, and multi-campus Unicaf University in Africa, Unicaf is expanding its operations in Africa through an ever-growing network of university campuses and learning centers offering blended and open learning options. At this point, Unicaf has its presence in 12 African Countries and plans to expand to 5 additional countries in the next two years. It offers its high-quality Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degree through its partner universities at a fraction of the cost in Africa. The multi-campus Unicaf University is accredited by local regulators and by the British Accreditation Council, offering various degree programs with a strong focus on professional skills.
Primary Strategies
Unicaf and Unicaf University offers a wide range of undergraduate programs online and through blended learning., All the programs offered by the education platform are accredited by the local regulators in each country where it operates.
Presently the organization’s primary strategy is to continue expanding its presence throughout Africa by obtaining additional university licenses in several new countries and expanding its current portfolio of programs. Unicaf’s presence allows its students to have local support and assistance with the application process. Unicaf University also helps its students by providing the opportunity to attend face-to-face tutorials, use the computer labs with high-speed internet, use the digital library, and access the brand’s state-of-the-art technology.
“At Unicaf, we use the latest technology, and we are perhaps unique in the use of predictive analytics in online learning. The use of A.I. predictive models in learning and student support allows for the individualization of learning and predicting student learning issues before they happen.”- says Nicos.
The learning platform continues to develop state-of-the-art technologies to enhance the existing technologies it uses in its digital platform, making its operations efficient and scalable. Additionally, its U.K. university partners provide its students with the opportunity of receiving internationally recognised qualifications at a fraction of the cost. At present, Unicaf is holding discussions with several British Universities which are interested in offering their online courses for African students.
In addition to new programs, Unicaf is also working with its local teams to identify the needs of the markets where it operates. The learning platform’s primary aim is to offer programs that can help its students with employment opportunities.
Advantages of Online Education
With the pandemic, most educational institutions have moved to online education. Nicos believe online education comes with several advantages.
- Flexibility and Accessibility: Online education allows students to set schedules that fit their family and other professional commitments. With online education, an individual does not need to give up on jobs or leave home.
- Not Limited to a Small Geographical Area: With online education, a program offering is not limited to the availability of students within a small geographical area. The modern classes are formed by students from all over the planet.
- Customized Learning Experience: The best part about online education is it can be customized according to individual needs. Technologies adopted for online learning help with the personal interaction between student and tutor.
- Affordability: With online education, students can pay one module at a time, which helps to create better budget management. Also, unlike traditional education, online education tends to be affordable. With online education, many students are also offered discounts and scholarships, so the price is affordable. As an online education platform Unicaf has already provided over $100 million in scholarships for its students.
Additionally, distance education can eliminate several barriers to higher education in Africa. Using flexible delivery models, students were not needed to visit physical locations at a pre-determined date and time.
When Employability is Vital
With a mission to positively contribute to the educational, economic, and sustainable development of local communities and regions, Unicaf uses its latest technology and innovative tools to improve and enhance the instructional method’s effectiveness and learning experience. The digital platform is a culmination of technology, people, and data. Its state-of-the-art digital platform helps students with various services until they graduate.
Nicos explains that 85% of Unicaf’s students declare that they were able to find better jobs or get a promotion at their current job. Developed in collaboration with employers to meet their specific needs, Unicaf University programs provide the needed knowledge and skills to help graduates enter the marketplace. Critical to the employment of new graduates is the development of higher education programs of study by engaging employers. A collaboration with employers and industry should target to help students achieve the needed skills relevant to the career of their choice.
Presently Unicaf is increasing the employability of its students by offering career advice and work placement opportunities, establishing partnerships with employers, designing programs focusing on professional skills, and involving employers in curriculum design and delivery.