Brightstar Capital Partners acquires 50 percent stake in Arden University, plans to embed AI initiatives
Private equity firm Brightstar Capital Partners has purchased a 50 percent stake in Ardern University, in partnership with current owner Global University Systems.
Brightstar Capital Partners says it plans to “supercharge digital innovation” at Arden by embedding AI and hopes to rapidly scale its international presence.
The university currently offers a combination of distance and blended learning courses in the UK and internationally, with a focus on mature students who often balance their education with careers, family and other responsibilities.
Brightstar Partner and Co-chair Marcelo Claure will serve as Board Chair once the transaction has closed. He recently joined the firm hoping to implement AI initiatives across its portfolio.
“We are proud to partner with a company that is not just innovative but helps transform the lives of its students,” Claure says. “With its digital-first model, operational scalability, and commitment to student outcomes, we are confident that Arden can both expand its geographic footprint and deploy advanced AI tools to personalise learning, streamline support, and enhance the overall student experience.”
Languages and international expansion
Claure told the FT he plans to use AI to translate the university’s curriculum into new languages, aiming to rapidly expand in the Middle East, Latin America and parts of Europe including Spain. “AI technology allows you to basically teach a class in English and be able to deliver to many different students in over 150 different languages,” he told the publication.
“This is an exciting inflection point for Arden, and we are thrilled to join forces with Brightstar,” Professor Carl Lygo, Vice Chancellor and CEO at Arden comments. “We believe this partnership enables us to supercharge our strategy of delivering innovative learning experiences, scaling our reach, and embedding AI to support every student more effectively. We look forward to working alongside Brightstar’s investors and operators who believe so deeply in our mission.”
The acquisition is expected to complete in the second half of 2025, subject to regulatory approvals.
“We believe that Brightstar’s operational expertise and strategic mindset, including their focus on utilising AI to improve the student experience and operations, make them the ideal partner for this next chapter,” adds Aaron Etingen, Executive Chairman and CEO of GUS. “This is a pivotal moment for Arden, and together we can build the future of education that is flexible, accessible, and powered by intelligent technology.”
