UNIPASS commences operation in Nigeria, targets wider access to global education
By Uji A Iliyasu, Abuja
Renowned international education consultancy, UNIPASS, has officially commenced operations in Nigeria, unveiling plans to expand access to quality higher education for young Nigerians seeking to study abroad, while also promoting Nigeria as a destination for foreign students.
Speaking at the launch of UNIPASS Nigeria in Abuja on Wednesday, the organisation’s Chief Executive Officer, Alvin Atsegwasi, said the firm is committed to providing transparent and accountable pathways for students pursuing overseas education. He added that UNIPASS is also focused on supporting vulnerable groups through targeted scholarship programmes, including persons with disabilities.
“At UNIPASS, we don’t only support Nigerians going abroad. We also promote opportunities for foreigners to come and study here in Nigeria,” Atsegwasi said, highlighting partnerships with local institutions such as the Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management as key to this mission. He stressed that the UNIPASS model helps reduce risks linked to unregulated study routes and migration challenges.
“UNIPASS is here to change that story. We will work hand-in-hand with the Nigerian government and stakeholders to create structured and transparent pathways for our youth,” he added. “Our promise to parents and communities is simple: we will get you there.”
Co-founder Sanpreet Sehmi reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to ensuring equal access to quality education, irrespective of a student’s academic background. She announced a milestone partnership with the Isaac Balami University, describing it as UNIPASS’ first institutional collaboration in Africa.
“It proves that world-class standards are not only found abroad; they can be built and proudly offered here,” Sehmi said.
Executive Director Maureen Mutsiya described the new Abuja office as “a passport to global education,” noting that over 1,200 students have benefitted from UNIPASS guidance in the past two years across destinations including Canada, Australia, the UK, the US, Ireland, Germany, and New Zealand.
The event drew a large audience and featured goodwill messages from the Senior Special Assistant to the President on School Feeding, Dr. Yetunde Adeniji, as well as Isaac Balami, CEO of the Isaac Balami Foundation and the Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management.