OpenLearning Lands 5-Year $400K SaaS Deal with Philippines’ National University
OpenLearning has secured a significant five-year SaaS contract with National University, one of the Philippines’ largest private universities, marking a major step in its regional expansion and AI-driven LMS adoption.
- Five-year SaaS agreement with National University for minimum 40,000 students annually
- Contract valued at US$400,000 minimum, with potential to reach A$250,000 annual fees
- National University plans to expand LMS usage to all 85,000 students across 14 campuses
- OpenLearning’s AI-powered platform chosen after competitive evaluation
- Partnership underscores OpenLearning’s growth ambitions in the Philippines and Southeast Asia
A Strategic Win in Southeast Asia
OpenLearning Limited (ASX: OLL), an AI-powered learning management system provider, has announced a landmark five-year software-as-a-service (SaaS) agreement with National University (NU), one of the Philippines’ largest private universities. This deal represents a significant milestone in OpenLearning’s regional growth strategy, particularly in the fast-evolving education technology market of Southeast Asia.
National University, which currently serves approximately 85,000 students across 14 campuses, has committed to a minimum usage of 40,000 students annually on OpenLearning’s platform. The initial contract guarantees a minimum revenue of US$80,000 (around A$124,000) per year, totaling US$400,000 over five years. However, as the university expands the platform’s adoption to its full student body, OpenLearning anticipates annual SaaS fees could reach up to A$250,000.
Why National University Chose OpenLearning
National University conducted a competitive trial of several leading learning management systems before selecting OpenLearning. The university’s president, Renato Carlos H Ermita Jr, highlighted the platform’s intuitive AI course builder and outcome-based approach as key differentiators. The scalability of the system was also critical given NU’s multi-campus footprint and ambitious growth plans, including new campuses in East Ortigas, Bacolod, and Las Piñas.
OpenLearning’s CEO, Adam Brimo, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, emphasizing it as a strong endorsement of the company’s technology and leadership in applying generative AI to education. The collaboration not only strengthens OpenLearning’s foothold in the Philippines but also signals its intent to become a dominant LMS provider in the broader Southeast Asian market.
Implications for OpenLearning and the Education Sector
This agreement aligns with OpenLearning’s broader strategy to revolutionize online education delivery through AI-enhanced platforms. With over 250 education providers already using its system globally, this deal with National University adds a substantial new client in a high-growth region. The Philippines’ expanding higher education sector, coupled with NU’s projected enrollment growth beyond 100,000 students by 2027, offers OpenLearning a scalable revenue stream and a showcase for its technology.
In addition, the partnership includes NU’s affiliated institutions such as Asia Pacific College and Inspire Sports Academy, potentially broadening the platform’s reach within the university group. The deal’s structure, based on student usage, incentivizes OpenLearning to support NU’s digital transformation and student engagement initiatives actively.
While the minimum contract value provides a solid revenue base, the true upside depends on the full rollout and adoption across all campuses. Investors will be watching closely to see how quickly National University integrates the platform and how OpenLearning capitalizes on this momentum in the Philippines and beyond.
Bottom Line?
OpenLearning’s new partnership with National University sets the stage for accelerated growth in Southeast Asia’s education technology market.
Questions in the middle?
- How quickly will National University scale usage to the full 85,000 students?
- What additional features or AI capabilities will OpenLearning develop to maintain its competitive edge?
- Could this deal lead to further contracts with other universities in the Philippines or Southeast Asia?
