Open Institute of Technology Sets Sights on African Expansion, Launches New Programs and Faculty Enhancements
In a bold stride towards fostering global inclusivity and excellence in technology education, the Open Institute of Technology (OPIT), an esteemed EU-accredited online institution renowned for its expertise in IT education, announces its plans to amplify enrollment from African countries for the academic year 2024. With a commitment to providing world-class education in information technology, OPIT is poised to extend its reach across Africa, welcoming students from diverse backgrounds and fostering a vibrant learning community.
Since its inception in 2023, OPIT has been dedicated to breaking down barriers to quality education and empowering individuals worldwide with cutting-edge skills in technology. The institution’s inaugural year witnessed a diverse cohort of 100 students from 38 nations, with a notable representation from Africa. Demonstrating a commitment to diversity and inclusivity, OPIT welcomed both Bachelor’s (9%) and Master’s (7%) students from African countries, showcasing the institution’s global appeal and accessibility.
A testament to its commitment to diversity, OPIT’s first cohort boasted students from various industries, including Consulting, Tech, Gaming, Energy, Government, Financial Services, Agriculture, Oil and Gas, and Education. This diverse mix of backgrounds enriches the learning experience at OPIT, fostering dynamic discussions and interdisciplinary collaborations.
In preparation for its upcoming student intake, OPIT has introduced several enhancements to its programs, faculty, and support services. Notable among these enhancements are the introduction of four specialized tracks for its BSc in Computer Science program, catering to the evolving needs of the technology industry. These tracks include Cybersecurity, Data Science & AI, Software Development & Cloud Computing, and Metaverse & Gaming, offering students a tailored learning experience aligned with industry demands.
Additionally, OPIT has launched a new BSc in Digital Business, catering to students interested in blending digital business with core computer science principles, reflecting the institution’s commitment to innovation and relevance in the digital age.
In response to the evolving landscape of technology and the demands of the global job market, OPIT has expanded its Master’s Degree offerings to include programs such as MSc Enterprise Cybersecurity, MSc Applied Digital Business, and MSc Responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI), complementing its existing MSc Applied Data Science and AI program.
Professor Francesco Profumo, Rector of OPIT and former Minister of Education, University and Research of Italy, emphasized the institution’s mission to bridge the gap between academia and industry. He stated, “In an era marked by an inevitable acceleration towards the most urgent transitions impacting society in the digital age, OPIT’s mission is to focus on quality online education in Technology. The starting point is the awareness of the misalignment in the labor market, between what is taught in most universities and what companies are looking for today.”
Speaking on faculty expansion and teaching methodologies, Riccardo Ocleppo, Founder and Director of OPIT, highlighted the institution’s commitment to excellence and student support. He stated, “Our teaching model combines quality, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. We believe that education, even if it takes place remotely, must guarantee closeness on all other aspects, starting from the support for the student throughout the period of study.”
In addition to academic rigor, OPIT offers a diverse array of global perspectives, with students and faculty hailing from various corners of the world. A newly established Career Services Department aims to forge stronger connections between students and their desired industries and career paths, providing invaluable support for career advancement.
Furthermore, students from Africa enrolling in 2024 will benefit from having their degrees recognized by the World Education Services (WES), potentially facilitating immigration processes in the United States and Canada in the future.
As OPIT continues to expand its global footprint and empower the next generation of technology leaders, prospective students are encouraged to explore the institution’s degrees, accreditation status, faculty members, and student services at www.opit.com.
About OPIT:
OPIT’s mission is to unlock progress and employment on a global scale by providing high-quality and affordable education in the field of technology. As an EU-accredited online Higher Education Institution, OPIT offers career-aligned degrees in technology disciplines across Computer Science, Digital Business, and AI, with a focus on training and upskilling the next generation of leaders in these fields. OPIT’s BSc and MSc Degrees are developed following a competence-based learning approach and taught in English by top international professors, ensuring a tier-1 learning experience within a supportive and innovative community.
