IU International University of Applied Sciences’ AI Learning Companion Syntea Wins Gold at QS Reimagine Education
The award underscores IU’s pioneering role in providing students with AI-enhanced, personalised learning support
IU International University of Applied Sciences’ AI Learning Companion Syntea Wins Gold at QS Reimagine Education
Erfurt/London, 4 December 2025 – IU International University of Applied Sciences is proud to announce that Syntea, its in-house-developed AI learning companion, has been awarded as ‘Gold Winner’ in the category ‘AI in Education by Higher Education Institutions’ at Tuesday’s QS Reimagine Education Awards & Conference in London. This accolade is amongst the most renown awards in the education space. It highlights IU's pioneering role in shaping the future of higher education through intelligent AI-driven learning technologies.
“Receiving this award recognises our commitment to AI-powered learning to personalise and democratise education,” says Dr. Sven Schütt, CEO of IU International University of Applied Sciences. “Our goal is to provide every student with personalised support, real opportunities to grow, and the skills they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.”
Syntea has evolved significantly since its launch in April 2022, which preceded the hype surrounding the ChatGPT release later that year. Today, Syntea is one of the most advanced AI-driven learning platforms and companions in the university space. Its latest advanced version recognises students’ work environments, preferences, and study objectives and guides the student in a multimodal, multi-agent setup through the learning experience towards successful course completion. In addition to personalising the learning experience, it supports students’ learning motivation. As a result, it increases both study retention and study progress and makes learning more relevant for every student.
“This honorable award shows that AI has the potential to significantly improve the learning experience by providing personalised support and empowering students to confidently navigate complex subjects,” says Mark Zakhvatkin, Director AI & Data, IU Group. “With Syntea, we offer students a reliable, adaptive learning companion that complements traditional teaching methods, promoting deeper understanding and demonstrably better preparation for exams,” adds Quintus Stierstorfer, Senior Director AI Product, IU Group.
About QS Reimagine Education Awards & Conference
The QS Reimagine Education Awards & Conference is a global forum for university leaders, EdTech innovators and educators to showcase pioneering approaches, improve learning outcomes, and prepare institutions for future challenges. See here for more information.
About Syntea
By combining adaptive learning, personalised tutoring, instant feedback, progress tracking, and an intuitive user experience, Syntea effectively supports the needs of modern, flexible study programmes. The AI-powered learning companion guides students through tailored learning paths, identifies knowledge gaps, provides actionable insights, and offers 24/7 guidance. This enables students in distance learning and part-time professional education to study efficiently alongside work and other commitments, promoting deeper understanding, improved exam preparation, and continuous skill development. See here for more information.
Overview: IU Syntea press releases
With nearly 130,000 students, IU International University of Applied Sciences (IU) is the largest university in Germany. The private, state-recognised educational institution, based in Erfurt, began teaching in 2000 and now has 37 campuses. IU stands for maximum flexibility in study: whether through dual study, distance learning or on campus – students from over 160 nations tailor their educational path to suit their individual circumstances. With more than 200 degree programmes at bachelor’s, master’s and MBA level, IU imparts practical skills. Innovative learning concepts foster targeted, future-proof skills for an increasingly AI-driven world of work. A modern, digitally supported learning environment and the use of artificial intelligence enable effective, personalised learning. As a pioneer in this field, IU has developed its own digital learning companion, ‘Syntea’, which has been in use since 2023. A network of over 15,000 companies – including Motel One, Vodafone, AWO and Deutsche Bahn – makes IU a strong partner in the training of skilled workers and consistently links academic teaching with practical experience. Further information at: iu.org
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