AltSchool Africa Launches Nano-Diploma to Give Learners More Flexibility

AltSchool Africa has launched a new Nano-Diploma, designed to give learners more control over their learning pace. The initiative comes after feedback from students who said the platform’s 12-month diploma program was too demanding for people with full-time jobs.

Co-founder and CEO Adewale Yusuf announced the new program on September 24, 2025, at AltSchool’s Lagos office. He said the Nano-Diploma reflects the company’s renewed focus on flexibility and inclusivity.

“We heard the feedback, and we had to adapt,” Yusuf said. “The Nano-Diploma gives learners the chance to study at their own pace without losing the quality of education we promised.”

The original AltSchool diploma required learners to dedicate about 20 hours weekly, making it difficult for working professionals. Complaints began on X (formerly Twitter), where students compared AltSchool to traditional universities and raised concerns about internet and electricity constraints.

Yusuf acknowledged these challenges, noting that AltSchool’s push for international accreditation had made the program more rigid. He said the company has now shifted strategy to balance quality with flexibility.

Rachael Onoja, Head of Innovation and New Markets, explained that AltSchool’s team reviewed its entire structure and grading system to reflect feedback from learners. “The demography of students we serve has evolved over time. This has allowed us to see that our diploma is not for everybody,” she said.

Onoja added that the Nano-Diploma offers the same learning quality as the full diploma but with better accessibility. It also helps professionals apply new skills immediately in their jobs. “You could be a customer service agent today, applying skills from the Nano-Diploma daily. And by the time you are done, you can already see results.”

The new Nano-Diploma costs ₦45,000 ($30.21), compared to $290 for the full diploma. While this could potentially compete with the existing program, Onoja said both serve different audiences. AltSchool plans to improve onboarding to guide learners toward the best option based on their profiles.

Emmanuel Ogunsola, Head of Product and Engineering, said the Nano-Diploma offers a low barrier to entry. “With a browser on any device, you can go to our portal and start learning within less than five minutes,” he said.

AltSchool plans to make the Nano-Diploma available in Igbo, Yoruba, and Hausa, expanding reach across Africa. The company also intends to partner with organizations to provide scholarships and make the program accessible to low-income learners.

This launch follows AltSchool’s earlier announcement of Campus by AltSchool, an in-person learning initiative expected to begin pilot operations later this year. The company also teased upcoming AI features to support learners on the platform.

Yusuf said the Nano-Diploma is part of AltSchool’s broader goal to bring quality, flexible education to learners across Africa. “Our mission is to reach everyone, not just those in urban centers like Lagos,” he said.