UK-based GlobalNxt buys Malaysian uni from Manipal

The deal, worth an undisclosed sum, marks the next step in GlobalNxt’s strategy to build its portfolio, which currently specialises in open and distance learning.

The group’s other assets include OTHM Qualifications, London Graduate School, which operates in the UK and Malta, and Sri Lanka-based Wisdom Business Academy.

“The acquisition of GlobalNxt University marks a defining moment in our journey,” said SM Shamrat, executive chairman and CEO of GlobalNxt. “By bringing together the strengths of our institutions across the group, we aim to create a more connected and inclusive global learning community.”

Based in Malaysia, GlobalNxt University delivers bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programs to students chiefly through digital and distance learning, although it also offers some face-to-face teaching.

By bringing together the strengths of our institutions across the group, we aim to create a more connected and inclusive global learning communitySM Shamrat, GlobalNxt

GlobalNxt University was originally established in Singapore in 2001 as U21Global – a joint venture between Universitas 21 and Thomson Learning – and was an early pioneer in online graduate education.

Following changes in ownership, it joined India’s Manipal Group and later relocated to Malaysia. It was rebranded as GlobalNxt University in 2012, before becoming Manipal GlobalNxt University in 2018. After the acquisition by GlobalNxt earlier this year, the university has gone back to using the GlobalNxt University name.

The institution offers programs in business, management, IT, law, education and psychology, with a strong emphasis on adult learners and working professionals. Its flexible pathways include recognition of prior experiential learning, enabling accelerated progression.

GlobalNxt University is eyeing new a London campus later this year, as GlobalNxt sets an ambitious growth target to serve up to 100,000 students a year by 2030.