CEO Mike Ikenwa’s Remarks at Hack4Futo 2025
- Chisom Ugonna
- Sep 18
- 3 min read
On August 16, 2025, Univad CEO Mike Ikenwa highlighted efforts to help African students succeed in the AI era, including our recent ₦7.3 million scholarship program to support access to in-demand skills and the expansion of new diploma and short courses in fields like AI Engineering, Data Science, and Cybersecurity.
Editor’s note: On August 16, 2025, Mike Ikenwa, Founder and CEO of Univad, spoke at Hack4Futo 2025, one of Nigeria’s leading university hackathons, where he shared Univad’s mission to make education borderless and accessible. Below is an edited transcript of his remarks.
It is an honor to be here at Hack4Futo 2025. The energy in this room is inspiring, and I must commend the excellent lineup of speakers and the creativity of every participant. You are the reason gatherings like this matter.
At Univad, our mission is simple: to make education borderless. Unlike traditional schools that require physical presence in a classroom, Univad allows you to learn anywhere, anytime, at your own pace. We are not in competition with traditional universities; rather, we collaborate with them. In fact, 99% of our programmes are offered in partnership with leading international universities and institutions, giving our learners access to world-class education without geographical limitations.
Univad provide online diplomas, professional short courses, important AI-Powered tools to accelerate growth for students and professionals, and in-demand programs that help students and professionals build skills for the future of work. Some of our most popular programs include:
Diploma in Cybersecurity
Diploma in AI Engineering
Diploma in Data Science & Analytics
Diploma in Business and Management
Diploma in Process Engineering and Optimization
Specialized short courses that can be completed in just three months
Our approach ensures that learners not only acquire knowledge but also graduate with real projects, improved CVs, and solid portfolios. This way, the question of “experience” is no longer a barrier, our learners build it as they learn.
I’m particularly proud of our Univad Campus Ambassadors Programme, which is active across several institutions, including FUTO. This programme empowers students to lead, create, and earn while studying.
In the last few weeks alone, our ambassadors executed projects and content initiatives so impactful that they earned over ₦3 million in bounty rewards in just a week. Beyond the financial benefits, they are developing leadership skills, building global networks, and preparing themselves for remarkable career opportunities.
If you are not yet a part of this community, I strongly encourage you to join. It is one of the most vibrant and rewarding student networks you can belong to today.
New Courses and Scholarships
Today, I am excited to announce the launch of five new programmes, including:
These courses are designed to strengthen the analytical and business skills that employers value most in today’s economy.
And because we believe that opportunities should be accessible, we are currently offering ₦7.3 million worth of scholarships though the Univad Foundation to help new students begin their learning journey at Univad.
It’s humbling to reflect on how far we’ve come. In less than one year since our launch, Univad has grown to serve over 10,000 learners worldwide. This growth is proof of the demand for flexible, high-quality, and globally relevant education, and a sign that we are building something that truly matters.
To every student, innovator, and future leader at Hack4Futo 2025, the opportunities before you are endless. With the right skills, the right tools, and the right mindset, you can shape not only your career but also the future of technology and innovation in Africa.
At Univad, we are committed to being your partner on that journey. Thank you.
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