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Online University Education - Africa

Africa
  • Revenue in the Online University Education market is projected to reach US$407.20m in 2024.
  • Revenue is expected to show an annual growth rate (CAGR 2024-2028) of 7.65%, resulting in a projected market volume of US$546.80m by 2028.
  • In the Online University Education market, the number of users is expected to amount to 730.9k users by 2028.
  • User penetration will be 0.0% in 2024 and is expected to hit 0.1% by 2028.
  • The average revenue per user (ARPU) is expected to amount to US$843.20.
  • In global comparison, most revenue will be generated United States (US$82.30bn in 2024).
  • With a projected rate of 2.3%, the user penetration in the Online University Education market is highest United States.

Definition:

The Online University Education market follows the revenue and user development of online programs terminating in university-accredited degrees and certificates.
This definition includes degrees and certificates that are where the courses and materials are created by universities. The definition also includes degrees and certificates that are issued through third-party online learning platforms (edX) and accredited courses.

Additional Information

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

In-Scope

  • Online degrees (Bachelors, Masters, Ph.D)
  • Online university certificates (Harvard Business Online, eCornell)
  • Third-party platforms as infrastructure for course delivery (Coursera degrees, edX university certificates)

Out-Of-Scope

  • Third-party platforms courses and certificates (see Online Learning Platforms)
  • Professional certificate programs offered by professional institutions (see Professional Certificates).
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

    Analyst Opinion

    The Online University Education market in Africa is experiencing significant growth and development due to various factors. Customer preferences are shifting towards online education as it offers convenience, flexibility, and access to a wide range of courses and programs. Additionally, the market is being driven by trends such as the increasing adoption of technology, the need for upskilling and reskilling, and the growing demand for higher education in Africa. Local special circumstances, including limited access to traditional universities and the high cost of education, are also contributing to the growth of online university education in Africa. Furthermore, underlying macroeconomic factors such as the rapid growth of internet penetration and the increasing availability of affordable smartphones are creating opportunities for the expansion of the online education market in the region.

    Customer preferences:
    Customers in Africa are increasingly opting for online university education due to its convenience and flexibility. Online education allows students to access courses and programs from anywhere and at any time, eliminating the need for physical attendance and providing the flexibility to study at their own pace. This is particularly beneficial for working professionals who can balance their education with their professional commitments. Additionally, online education offers a wide range of courses and programs, allowing students to choose subjects that align with their interests and career goals. The availability of online resources, interactive learning platforms, and virtual classrooms also enhances the learning experience for students.

    Trends in the market:
    The adoption of technology is a major trend driving the growth of the online university education market in Africa. The increasing availability of high-speed internet and the widespread use of smartphones have made online learning more accessible than ever before. This has led to the emergence of online platforms and learning management systems that offer a variety of courses and programs. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of online education as traditional universities have shifted to remote learning. This has further increased the demand for online university education in Africa.

    Local special circumstances:
    Limited access to traditional universities and the high cost of education are key factors contributing to the growth of online university education in Africa. Many African countries face challenges in providing quality education and have a limited number of universities. This has created a demand for alternative education options, such as online university education, which can reach a larger number of students. Additionally, the cost of attending a traditional university, including tuition fees, accommodation, and transportation, can be prohibitive for many students. Online education offers a more affordable alternative, making higher education accessible to a wider population.

    Underlying macroeconomic factors:
    The rapid growth of internet penetration and the increasing availability of affordable smartphones are underlying macroeconomic factors driving the growth of the online education market in Africa. Internet penetration rates have been steadily increasing in Africa, with more people gaining access to the internet. This has created opportunities for online education providers to reach a larger audience. Additionally, the affordability of smartphones has increased, allowing more people to access online education platforms. These factors have contributed to the expansion of the online university 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

    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.

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    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

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