NOUN, ODeLAN partner on open, e-learning conference

The Open, Distance and E-Learning Association of Nigeria (ODeLAN) is collaborating with the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) to organise the 3rd ODeLAN International Conference, scheduled to take place in Abuja.

The annual conference, which will be held from May 14 to 16, 2025 at the NOUN Conference Centre, will host students, academics, researchers, industry experts from the digital space community, among others.

Speaking at a virtual press conference on Thursday, Professor Christine Ofulue of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) explained that the conference aims to provide a platform for stakeholders to share knowledge, experiences and innovations in open, distance, and e-learning.

The Professor of Linguistics said the theme of the conference, ‘Adaptive Pedagogies for the Future of Education: Connecting Learners, Technologies, and Communities’, reflects the urgent need for innovative and responsive approaches to teaching and learning in the face of rapid technological advancements and shifting societal demands.

Keynote speakers at the event include the President of the Commonwealth of Learning, Professor Peter Scott; Dean, Faculty of Education and Social Sciences, University of Oldenburg, Germany, Prof. Olaf Zawacki-Richter; Executive Dean, College of Education, University of South Africa (UNISA), Prof. Mpine Makoe; and Vice-Chancellor, Miva Open University, Abuja, Prof. Tayo Arulogun, among others.

Professor Ofulue noted that the conference will feature keynote addresses, paper presentations, panel discussions, and workshops, focusing on emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in open, distance and e-learning.

She said: “One of the workshops is being organised by the Commonwealth of Learning, and it will attract regional participation, particularly from West Africa.

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“So, it promises to contribute to shaping the future of education, not just in Nigeria but in Africa as well. It stands as a critical platform for exploring sustainable open distance learning models. And it also offers a unique opportunity for stakeholders to contribute to the evolution of adaptive technology-enhanced learning practices, which are crucial for preparing our students for the 21st-century workplace and future challenges.”

She invited researchers, scholars, and practitioners to submit papers and participate in the event.

Prof. Ofulue said the event promises to be enriching, offering opportunities for networking, collaboration, and knowledge sharing among participants.

She stressed that with its rich programme and diverse range of speakers, the international conference is poised to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of open, distance, and e-learning in Nigeria and beyond.