Skip to main content
  1. Market Insights
  2. Digital
  3. eServices

Online Education - Africa

Africa
  • Revenue in the Online Education market is projected to reach US$885.70m in 2024.
  • Revenue is expected to show an annual growth rate (CAGR 2024-2028) of 10.53%, resulting in a projected market volume of US$1.32bn by 2028.
  • The Online Learning Platform market has a projected market volume of US$429.50m in 2024.
  • In global comparison, most revenue will be generated United States (US$87.51bn in 2024).
  • The average revenue per user (ARPU) in the Online Education market is projected to amount to US$38.44 in 2024.
  • In the Online Education market, the number of users is expected to amount to 30.5m users by 2028.
  • User penetration in the Online Education market will be at 1.8% in 2024.

Definition:

The Online Education segment is defined as the transfer of knowledge or skills, whether self-paced or instructor-led, through online platforms. This includes the areas of Online University Education, Online Learning Platforms, and Professional Certification. The Online Education segment follows the revenue and user development of platforms and websites in these areas using B2C or both B2C and B2B sales channels.

Structure:

The online education market encompasses the provision of university education, online learning platforms, and professional certification programs.

Additional Information

Data icludes revenue figuresin Gross Merchandise Value (GMV), Users, average revenue per user (ARPU), and user penetration rate. User and revenue figures represent B2C services.

In-Scope

  • University designed and delivered courses and credentials such as public/private universities, Harvard Business Online
  • Online learning platform courses and credentials such as Coursera, Udemy, Babbel
  • Professional certification offered through institutes and study prep companies such as PMI, Kaplan.

Out-Of-Scope

  • Learning management systems
  • Virtual learning environments
  • Exclusively B2B companies
Online Education: market data & analysis - Cover

Market Insights report

Online Education: market data & analysis

Study Details

    Revenue

    Notes: Data was converted from local currencies using average exchange rates of the respective year.

    Most recent update: Mar 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Notes: The chart “Comparable Estimates” shows the forecasted development of the selected market from different sources. Please see the additional information for methodology and publication date.

    Most recent update: Mar 2024

    Most recent update: Mar 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Market Shares

    Notes: The shares above do not add up to 100%. Only top brands are shown.

    Most recent update: Mar 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Analyst Opinion

    The Online Education market in Africa has been experiencing significant growth in recent years, driven by various factors such as increasing internet penetration, rising demand for skills development, and the need for flexible learning options.

    Customer preferences:
    Customers in Africa are increasingly turning to online education as a convenient and accessible way to acquire new skills and knowledge. Online education platforms offer a wide range of courses and programs, allowing individuals to learn at their own pace and from anywhere with an internet connection. This flexibility is particularly appealing to working professionals and those with busy schedules. Additionally, online education provides access to high-quality educational resources and expertise that may not be readily available in certain regions of Africa.

    Trends in the market:
    One of the key trends in the online education market in Africa is the growing popularity of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs). MOOCs are online courses that are open to anyone and typically offer interactive learning materials, quizzes, and assignments. These courses are often provided by prestigious universities and educational institutions from around the world, making them highly attractive to African learners seeking quality education. The availability of MOOCs has significantly expanded access to education in Africa, bridging the gap between traditional educational institutions and remote learners. Another trend in the market is the emergence of online education platforms tailored specifically for the African market. These platforms offer courses and programs that are relevant to the local context, addressing specific needs and challenges faced by African learners. For example, there are platforms that focus on providing vocational training and entrepreneurship skills, which are in high demand in Africa's rapidly evolving job market. This localized approach to online education is crucial in catering to the unique requirements of African learners and ensuring the relevance and applicability of the skills acquired.

    Local special circumstances:
    Africa is a diverse continent with varying levels of internet connectivity and infrastructure. While some countries have made significant progress in terms of internet penetration, others still face challenges in providing reliable and affordable internet access to their populations. This digital divide can limit the accessibility of online education in certain regions, particularly in rural areas. However, efforts are being made to improve internet infrastructure and connectivity across Africa, which will further contribute to the growth of the online education market.

    Underlying macroeconomic factors:
    The online education market in Africa is also influenced by broader macroeconomic factors. The continent is experiencing rapid urbanization and a growing middle class, which is driving demand for education and skills development. Additionally, Africa has a youthful population, with a significant proportion of the population under the age of 25. This demographic trend creates a large pool of potential learners who are eager to acquire new skills and improve their employability. The online education market is well-positioned to cater to this demand and provide accessible learning opportunities to the African youth. In conclusion, the online education market in Africa is witnessing significant growth due to increasing internet penetration, rising demand for skills development, and the need for flexible learning options. Customers in Africa are increasingly turning to online education platforms to acquire new skills and knowledge. The market is characterized by the growing popularity of MOOCs and the emergence of platforms tailored for the African market. However, challenges such as the digital divide and varying levels of internet connectivity exist, which can limit the accessibility of online education in certain regions. Nonetheless, the underlying macroeconomic factors, including rapid urbanization, a growing middle class, and a youthful population, provide a favorable environment for the continued expansion of the online education market in Africa.

    Users

    Most recent update: Mar 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Global Comparison

    Most recent update: Mar 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Key Players

    Most recent update: Mar 2024

    Source: Statista Company Insights

    Methodology

    Data coverage:

    The data encompasses B2C enterprises. Figures are based on Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) and represent what consumers pay for these products and services. The user metrics show the number of customers who have made at least one online purchase within the past 12 months.

    Modeling approach / Market size:

    Market sizes are determined through a bottom-up approach, building on predefined factors for each market segment. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use annual financial reports of the market-leading companies, third-party studies and reports, as well as survey results from our primary research (e.g., the Statista Global Consumer Survey). In addition, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific associations, such as GDP, GDP per capita, and internet connection speed. This data helps us estimate the market size for each country individually.

    Forecasts:

    In our forecasts, we apply diverse forecasting techniques. The selection of forecasting techniques is based on the behavior of the relevant market. For example, the S-curve function and exponential trend smoothing. The main drivers are internet users, urban population, usage of key players, and attitudes toward online services.

    Additional notes:

    The market is updated twice a year in case market dynamics change. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war are considered at a country-specific level. GCS data is reweighted for representativeness.

    Digital

    Access more Market Insights on Digital topics with our featured report

    Online Education: market data & analysis - BackgroundOnline Education: market data & analysis - Cover

    Key Market Indicators

    Notes: Based on data from IMF, World Bank, UN and Eurostat

    Most recent update: Sep 2024

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Contact

    Get in touch with us. We are happy to help.