Aquaful founder and Oxford alumnus on collaborating with students on Making a Difference
Oxford alumnus and Aquaful founder Ludovic Claude collaborated with Oxford University students on a project through the Making a Difference programme. Returning to Oxford to bring forward a real-world challenge, he found that students rose to the occasion. It’s always a pleasure to welcome alumni back in all capacities, especially as they create learning opportunities that benefit both students and the organisation.
About Aquaful
Aquaful is an early-stage social enterprise founded by Oxford alumnus Ludovic Claude and based in Geneva, Switzerland.
Our mission is to transform how people access WHO-standard safe drinking water, starting in West Africa. For us, this work goes far beyond financial returns. Access to safe drinking water is foundational to the social, cultural, and economic well-being of communities. By deploying a locally led model in which ownership is shared with local entrepreneurs, we aim not only to serve consumers but to empower communities to build resilient, inclusive water systems.
Collaborating with Oxford students
Through Oxford University’s Making a Difference Programme, we had the invaluable opportunity to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of exceptional students. Their project delivered a rigorous market-entry analysis for West Africa, covering macroeconomic dynamics, socio-political considerations, and business development. Importantly, the students did more than validate our strategy: they challenged our assumptions, identified gaps, and provided critical insights that enable us to strengthen and accelerate our execution.
We have been particularly impressed by the students’ dedication. Despite demanding academic schedules, they brought outstanding commitment, analytical depth, and a genuine desire to contribute to Aquaful’s mission.
For an early-stage organisation such as ours, partnerships that bring fresh thinking and diverse expertise are essential to scaling impact. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with Oxford students and the University in the years ahead.
Ludovic Claude – Founder of Aquaful
About the Making a Difference programme
Professional skills for purpose-led careers – with hands-on projects in charities and social enterprises.
Many Oxford students are keen to secure jobs that give them a sense of purpose and where they can make a real difference in the world and to people’s lives. This programme aims to provide the key skills, relevant experiences, a network of stimulating people working in the field, and insight into the career paths possible that together can provide that sense of purpose and impact. Here is how Oxford University students and organisations can take part:
