University of the People
University of the People is the world’s first non-profit, tuition-free online university. Since its inception in January 2009, UoPeople has been determined to make tuition free online learning a reality for suitable applicants from all over the world.
UoPeople provides access to structured, tuition- free online learning programs in Business Administration and Computer Science. Applicants from around the world can apply provided they have graduated high school, have access to a computer and the Internet and have sufficient English skills to complete the English-only courses.
Social networking, open-source technology and peer-to-peer learning form part of the overall learning and grading system where students are required to fully participate in discussions and answer questions posed by the faculty and other students in their groups and forums.
Underpinning the peer-to-peer methodology is the constant presence of academic faculty – both employed and volunteer – who provide the necessary support, within the learning environment, for students as they progress. The tuition free education programs are supported by respected scholars. A community of educators participate in the educational activity; qualified instructors oversee the assessment process of this tuition free online education model.
The Founder and President, Shai Reshef, has worked in international education for over 20 years and believes that the with the aid of technological developments and the help of volunteers, access to a tuition free online education is within reach of millions on account of University of the People.
University of the People currently has a student body comprised of 437 students from more than 80 countries, including Indonesia, Columbia, Vietnam, United States, Afghanistan, Thailand, Sudan and Zambia. As the University expands and aims to provide more tuition-free, higher education to disenfranchised communities, there is a harsh reality that in many parts of the world, millions are missing the opportunity.
In a recent fundraising initiative, UoPeople has embarked in an effort to spread the message that $80 will send one student to University of the People for a term. A donation to University of the People will give a student the chance at higher education by providing the necessary academic and administrative support.
Whether supporters donate $8 or $80, they should consider sharing the cause with their network as the impact will grow exponentially and bring a total impact to new heights.
Open the doors for students in need – all it takes is an $80 donation.
The writer has worked in international education for over 20 years and believes that the with the aid of technological developments and the help of volunteers, access to a tuition free online education is within reach of millions on account of University of the People free online learning