A wave of transformation is sweeping across Africa’s higher education landscape, and Astria Learning is proud to be at its heart.
During the ARUA 2025 Biennial International Conference, held in Kampala, Uganda, under the theme “Research, Innovation, and Artificial Intelligence for Africa’s Transformation,” Astria Learning and Makerere University signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish the AI eCampus Partnership, a bold initiative designed to revolutionize postgraduate education, research collaboration, and digital learning across Africa.
A Defining Moment for Africa’s Knowledge Future
The MoU was signed by Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Vice-Chancellor of Makerere University, and Dr. Jeff Bordes, CEO of Astria Learning, marking a historic milestone in Africa’s pursuit of AI-driven education and research excellence.
“Makerere University is making strategic efforts to expand its footprint through distance learning. This partnership with Astria Learning will help us deliver quality graduate training globally while advancing our research-led agenda.”
— Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Vice-Chancellor of Makerere University
The signing took place in the presence of distinguished leaders, including Hon. Dr. Musenero Monica Musanza, Uganda’s Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, and Dr. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the Makerere University Council, alongside delegates and thought leaders from across the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA).
Together, they reaffirmed a shared commitment to unlocking Africa’s potential through research, innovation, and technology.
The AI eCampus: Expanding Minds, Not Walls
Every day, 80,000 young Africans turn 18, yet only 9% access higher education, and fewer than 1% pursue postgraduate studies. Traditional infrastructure can no longer keep pace with the continent’s demand for learning.
The AI eCampus Partnership responds to that challenge by:
- Launching a continental digital platform for postgraduate learning and research collaboration.
- Expanding access to borderless, AI-powered education across Africa.
- Digitizing every stage of the academic lifecycle, from admissions to thesis defense.
- Supporting the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and its goal of producing 100,000 new PhDs by 2035.
“Education is Africa’s inheritance, the most powerful bridge between potential and prosperity. When we combine intelligence with intention, we ignite transformation. Together with Makerere University, we are building systems that don’t just educate, they empower.”
— Dr. Jeff Bordes, CEO of Astria Learning
Empowering Africa’s Universities for the Digital Future
Built on Astria Learning’s cutting-edge ecosystem, including its AI-Powered Learning Management System, Campus Management Platform, Digital Library, and Research Analytics Suite, the partnership will equip universities with the tools to scale high-quality education beyond physical boundaries.
As Africa’s oldest and most prestigious university, Makerere University will serve as the continental hub for AI research and innovation, driving cross-border collaboration, global partnerships, and sustainable academic growth.
“Makerere University is making strategic efforts to expand its footprint through distance learning. This partnership with Astria Learning will help us deliver quality graduate training globally while advancing our research-led agenda.” – Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Vice-Chancellor of Makerere University
ARUA 2025: Where Visionaries Shape the Future
The ARUA 2025 Biennial International Conference gathered an extraordinary lineup of thought leaders, such as:
- Prof. Tshilidzi Marwala, Rector of the United Nations University and Under-Secretary-General of the UN.
- Prof. Patrick Okori, Executive Director of RUFORUM.
- Prof. Vukosi Marivate, ABSA UP Chair of Data Science at the University of Pretoria.
- Adama Ibrahim, Vice-Chair of the Science for Africa Foundation.
- Darlington Akogo, Founder of minoHealth AI Labs.
- Samantha Carter, Senior AI Policy Manager at J-PAL Global.
These experts shared bold perspectives on how research, innovation, and artificial intelligence can drive Africa’s transformation.
Celebrating Engagement: ARUA 2025 Raffle Winner
The excitement didn’t stop at the signing table!
Astria Learning also hosted a special iPad raffle during the conference to celebrate innovation and engagement.
We are thrilled to congratulate Grace Ngubeni, the winner of the Astria Learning iPad Raffle at ARUA 2025!
Thank you to everyone who visited our booth, participated in discussions, and shared their ideas about the future of intelligent education. Each conversation reaffirmed our shared belief: Africa’s transformation will be powered by knowledge.
A Vision Beyond Technology
This collaboration represents more than just digital transformation; it’s a movement toward knowledge sovereignty, where Africa’s researchers define the innovations and policies that shape their nations’ futures.
“Africa’s digital future will be built by its universities. The wave of youth, ambition, and innovation cannot be held back. It must be channeled into opportunity, and that’s what we’re doing together.”
— Dr. Jeff Bordes
Press coverage of this historic MoU, including additional details about the AI eCampus Partnership, can be found on EIN Presswire.
About Astria Learning
Astria Learning is a global education technology company partnering with higher education institutions in over 16 countries.
Its suite of innovations includes AI-powered learning platforms, digital libraries, student tablets, and a comprehensive suite of tools designed to enhance e-learning quality and accessibility.
Astria’s mission is clear: to democratize education by making high-quality, flexible, and globally competitive learning accessible through technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
The MoU represents a strategic partnership focused on advancing AI-driven education and digital transformation in Africa.
It promotes AI research, digital skills training, and innovation within higher education institutions.
AI improves personalized learning, data-driven decision-making, and scalable education delivery.
Astria Learning provides platforms that integrate AI for analytics, personalized learning, and institutional efficiency.
Benefits include improved learning experiences, access to advanced digital tools, and future-ready academic programs.
ARUA 2025 serves as a regional platform to align universities around innovation, AI adoption, and digital policy leadership.
Yes. Strategic university and EdTech partnerships can accelerate AI and digital learning adoption continent-wide.
