Business will continue to be led by Jesús Núñez, founder and president of UAX, with new focus on increasing international reach
The Universidad Alfonso X El Sabio (UAX), one of the principal private education institutions in Spain and the oldest in its field, has announced today its partnership with the investment advisory firm CVC to build a new international leader in the higher education sector.
Established in 1994, UAX has a proven track record of success and offers a wide array of higher education options: 49 degree courses and 46 postgraduate and master programmes. The university specialises in academic development with a particular focus on the education of professionals destined for the corporate world, thanks to its 8,800 agreements with companies, institutions, associations and individuals. It currently has 8,500 students enrolled and an alumni community of over 37,000 graduates. UAX is recognised for its healthcare training with three healthcare centres, a veterinary hospital that is renowned Europe-wide, an innovative Virtual Simulation Hospital and a premium campus spanning over 1 million square metres.
CVC will support the founding team led by Jesús Núñez, president of the university, to ensure continued growth in Spain and internationally, both on campus and online. The five-year plan includes both organic and inorganic growth. Organic growth will be driven by expanding the current offering, growing the number of online students and strengthening its professional training.
The higher education sector is currently facing several challenges, including greater international competition, the digitalisation of courses, and new professional skills. To address these challenges, the founders of UAX have sought a partner that will drive growth while continuing to ensure the highest standards of quality for students, faculty and researchers.
CVC Fund VII will become an indirect shareholder of UAX, providing the required financial resources for the business, while current shareholders will remain invested. CVC will bring to bear its international reach and industry links.
CVC Funds have been investing in Spain since 1997, primarily in healthcare, energy and infrastructure. CVC Funds are currently invested in QA Education, the UK’s leading business and IT training company.
The closing is expected once all relevant regulatory and competition authorisations have been secured.
