Education is evolving—but traditional online learning isn’t keeping up. Passive lectures and zero interaction leave students disengaged.
What if online learning felt as real as campus life?
Today, SEGi University & Colleges officially launched SEGi UniVerse—Southeast Asia’s first virtual learning platform in the metaverse. Backed by a multi-million-ringgit investment, SEGi UniVerse blends Virtual Reality (VR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and immersive technology to bridge the gap between online and on-campus experiences, offering a dynamic and engaging educational environment.
This is more than just online learning—it’s the future of education, reimagined.
A Bold Leap Into the Future of Learning
According to Stella Lau, Managing Director, Group Operations, Globalisation & Digitalisation at SEGi, the pandemic was a pivotal moment that reshaped digital education strategies.
“The pandemic was not just a health crisis—it forced us to rethink digitalisation strategies. How real can the student experience be? With all the challenges of online learning, the metaverse provides the answer. We are no longer constrained by the laws of physics. With avatars, our staff and students can create a whole new persona—this is where innovation starts, and new ideas are shared.”
A Game-Changer for Learning
SEGi UniVerse is not just another online learning platform—it is a revolution in how students learn, collaborate, and engage. The platform features a fully immersive 3D virtual campus, allowing students to experience university life in a digital replica of SEGi University. Unlike traditional e-learning, students no longer have to rely on passive, pre-recorded lectures. Instead, they engage in live, interactive classes, real-time discussions, and collaborative learning with peers and lecturers.
Another key feature of SEGi UniVerse is its VR-powered labs and hands-on training simulations. Students can conduct experiments, engage in practical applications, and gain real-world experience—all within a virtual environment. The platform also integrates real-time translation technology, removing language barriers and enabling seamless global connectivity between students and faculty from different parts of the world.
Studies have demonstrated that VR-powered education can increase knowledge retention by 75% compared to traditional methods.
“VR is proving to be a game-changer, significantly improving classroom management, engagement, and student involvement,” said Dato’ Emeritus Professor Dr Muhammad Awang, Chairman, Board of Governors, SEGi University. “With SEGi UniVerse, we are harnessing this cutting-edge technology to revolutionise education and enhance student engagement like never before.”
Bringing the Human Element Back to Online Learning
Traditional online learning often lacks human interaction, leading to higher dropout rates. Studies show that 80% of online students struggle with motivation and engagement, making retention a major challenge.
“Many types of students exist—some prefer fully online, while others thrive in hybrid models,” Lau explained. “Wouldn’t it be great to put a face to learning? Without non-verbal communication, we miss out on deeper connections—SEGi UniVerse is here to change that.”
To further enhance engagement, Chan Sow Boon, Director, Group Technology & Digital Development at SEGi, outlined SEGi UniVerse’s four-platform accessibility, allowing students to seamlessly connect via:
🔹 VR headsets for a fully immersive experience
🔹 Windows & Mac devices for desktop-based learning
🔹 Mobile applications for studying on the go
🔹 A lightweight web-based version for accessibility across all devices
“Real-time translation is also a game-changer,” Chan added. “Now, students don’t need to master a language—there are no language barriers, making learning truly seamless.”
Additionally, gamification features such as leaderboards, challenges, and interactive tasks create a competitive and cooperative learning environment, keeping students motivated and engaged.
More Than Just a Product—An Entire Ecosystem
While the technology is impressive, SEGi UniVerse is more than just a virtual classroom—it’s an entire ecosystem designed to support students wherever they are.
SEGi has already established Regional UniHubs in 19 cities across 8 countries, including China, Saudi Arabia, Tanzania and Zimbabwe. These hubs provide face-to-face student support, ensuring that online learners receive the same level of academic and administrative assistance as on-campus students.
“While we connect with all our regional UniHub partners, this isn’t just a product—it’s an entire learning ecosystem,” Lau emphasised.
SEGi has also secured accreditation for its APEL Centre for international students, reinforcing its commitment to high-quality, globally recognised education.
“Going global is great, but nothing matters more than quality and accreditation,” Lau concluded.
Expanding Global Access to Education
SEGi’s commitment to borderless education goes beyond just technology—it is actively working to expand global access to high-quality learning.
According to Kelvin Tan, Director, Prospective Student Office, International Marketing & Partnerships at SEGi, SEGi UniVerse has expansion plans in Southeast Asia, Greece, and Europe, allowing students worldwide to gain access to SEGi’s globally recognised qualifications without the financial burden of relocating.
“We wanted to expand worldwide while keeping costs manageable for students,” Tan explained. “SEGi UniVerse allows students to access a world-class education from anywhere.”
By 2026, SEGi aims to establish UniHubs in 50 cities, strengthening its global presence and making high-quality education more accessible than ever.
No Headset? No Problem.
A major concern is whether students need a VR headset to access SEGi UniVerse. The answer? No.
“The way to access SEGi UniVerse isn’t limited to VR headsets,” Lau clarified. “We will provide basic VR headsets where necessary, but the platform is also accessible via desktops, mobile, and the web. It’s an extension of the physical realm, allowing maximum flexibility for students worldwide.”
The Future is Now
SEGi UniVerse is not just another e-learning platform—it is a bold step into the future of education, breaking barriers, redefining engagement, and ensuring no student is left behind.
With real-time interaction, VR-powered simulations, and a fully immersive learning experience, it is setting a new standard for the future of education.
The question is—are you ready to step into the future?