Who We Are

About Open University of Mauritius

OU has redefined the landscape of higher education. With a diverse array of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, including PhD and DBA, along with a myriad of short courses, OU has pioneered a unique blend of open and distance learning that seamlessly integrates education, work, and life commitments. OU’s influence transcends borders, attracting learners from every corner of the globe, including Canada, Dubai, India, South Africa, Seychelles, Kenya, and beyond. Distance is no barrier as our innovative approach empowers learners to study with us, even if they are not residing in Mauritius.

Our Vision, Mission & Motto

Vision of the Open University

To be among the best open universities in the world.

Mission of the Open University

Use technology and flexible mode of teaching to serve society, transform lives and make high quality education, lifelong learning, and training accessible to everyone while promoting excellence in research.

Motto

My University Always With Me.

Our History

The Open University of Mauritius (OU), established on 12 July 2012 under the Open University of Mauritius Act 2010, evolved from the Mauritius College of the Air (MCA), itself established in 1971 to promote education through mass media. 
 
Since its inception, OU has been hosting several significant events, reinforcing its commitment to academic collaboration and institutional growth. In 2014, the University organised the Distance Education Association of Southern Africa (DEASA) conference, and afterwards, it conducted a number of Continuous Medical Education (CME) classes for doctors until 2020. Amongst other significant events, OU co-hosted three international conferences (e-MIG) with the University of KwaZulu-Natal (South Africa), strengthening its global academic partnerships. It is also worth noting that, in 2015, OU was first public university to be ISO certified.  
 
Under the leadership of its Founder Director-General, Dr Kaviraj Sharma Sukon, OU held its first graduation ceremony in July 2015, honouring 498 graduates and awarding an honorary doctorate to Nobel Laureate in Literature (2008), Dr Jean-Marie Gustave Le Clézio. In 2019, Professor Asha Kanwar, CEO of the Commonwealth of Learning (Canada), also received the award of Doctor Honoris Causa from OU, further highlighting the University’s global reach and partnerships. 
 
The University recently implemented an advanced learning management system, Blackboard Ultra, and a sophisticated Student Information Management System (SIMS), showcasing its dedication to innovation and educational excellence. 
 
The Open University of Mauritius grew steadily over the years and maintained the highest student enrolment among public universities in Mauritius.

Fastest Growing University

Accessibility, Quality, Affordability, Flexibility
Since its establishment in 2012, the Open University of Mauritius (OU) has been a pioneer in open and distance learning, providing flexible and accessible education to learners in Mauritius and beyond. In 2025, operating under the aegis of the Ministry of Tertiary Education, Science and Research, OU has grown into a leading institution, empowering individuals to achieve their academic and professional goals. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, the university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, including PhDs and DBAs, as well as short courses designed to meet the evolving needs of learners and industries. Over the past 13 years, OU has welcomed more than 13,000 learners, making it the fastest-growing public university in Mauritius. Dedicated to continuous improvement, OU integrates cutting-edge technology into its learning experience through platforms like OU’Learn Blackboard, enabling seamless online education. Furthermore, as the only ISO 9001:2015 certified public university in Mauritius, OU upholds the highest standards of quality and efficiency. With a strong vision for the future, the Open University of Mauritius continues to transcend boundaries, fostering knowledge, innovation, and success on both a local and global scale.

Pioneering ISO-Certified Public University in Mauritius

The Open University of Mauritius (OU) stands at the forefront of higher education, committed to excellence in learning experiences. On 3 July 2015, OU became the first tertiary education institution in Mauritius to achieve ISO certification, a landmark achievement reflecting its dedication to quality education. Since then, the University has continually improved its standards, transitioning from ISO 9001:2008 to ISO 9001:2015 certification. This ongoing commitment ensures that OU remains aligned with international best practices and the quality benchmarks set by the Mauritius Standards Bureau, reinforcing its mission to serve the evolving needs of students and society.

A Historic Milestone: The Inaugural Graduation Ceremony

OU marked a significant moment in its journey with its inaugural graduation ceremony held from 8 to 10 July 2015, celebrating the achievements of 498 graduates. This historic occasion was further distinguished by the presence of Nobel Prize Laureate in Literature (2008), Dr Jean-Marie Gustave Le Clézio. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to literature and global scholarship, OU awarded its first honorary doctorate, Doctor Honoris Causa, to Dr Le Clézio. This prestigious distinction reflects the University’s commitment to honouring individuals whose work has profoundly influenced the world. By conferring this title, OU underscored its dedication to academic excellence and its role in promoting intellectual and cultural enrichment.