The AVU offers a range of short certificate and non-certificate courses, and degree and diploma programs. These focus mostly on computer science and business studies because they have been seen as the best way to enable Africa to make a transition from a society based on natural resources to one based on knowledge.
The AVU technology and pedagogy models include the use of mixed modes of delivery systems including video conferencing, use of the internet, CD-Rom, video and audio cassettes and print based materials. A typical AVU remote class which meets at a Learning Centre (LC) has 25-50 learners who either view a lecture on a large screen or work online on computers that have been provided to LCs throughout Africa. The learners interact with tutors and other students via e-mail, using Web Communication Technology and telephones. The AVU has roughly 8000 e-books and 4000 e-journals. Although the limited availability of connectivity and the high cost of bandwidth in Africa is still a challenge, the AVU hopes to merge with other virtual and open learning systems in Africa to expand access to digital library resources.
