West Africa Emerges as Growing Study Destination for International Students
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West Africa is seeing a surge in international student interest as affordability and visa accessibility drive demand across the region, according to new data from Keystone Education Group.
Search demand for West African study destinations rose by 25% between April and July this year, with Botswana leading the growth at 58%. Other countries, including Namibia, Ghana and Nigeria, also recorded significant increases, with student interest rising by more than 28% in each case. Morocco rounded out the top five with a 10% gain.
While South Africa remains the continent’s most dominant education hub, accounting for over half of all searches, West African nations are emerging as increasingly attractive alternatives. Keystone’s analysis revealed that growth is being driven not only by local students but also by rising global interest from East and Southeast Asia, Europe, and North America.
Jack Surtees, insights executive at Keystone, noted that affordability and ease of visa access were major draws, along with niche academic offerings such as tropical medicine and renewable energy. He added: “Where historically many African students might look to North America or Europe, the growing reputation of African universities is offering a legitimate alternative much closer to home.”
The rise in West African demand comes amid global challenges facing traditional study destinations. Visa delays and financial barriers have increasingly affected students applying to the US, with recent policy changes, including reduced visa validity periods for 21 African countries further limiting access.
By contrast, the accessibility and cost-effectiveness of West African education systems are enhancing their visibility. Rising enrolment across Africa, which has more than doubled among young adults since the start of the century, is also fuelling demand.
Meanwhile, African universities are gaining global recognition, with more institutions such as Egypt’s Kafrelsheikh and Mansoura Universities appearing in international rankings. This, combined with growing intra-regional mobility, suggests West Africa’s role in the global education landscape will continue to strengthen.
Source: THE PIE NEWS
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