Abuja: Prof. Olufemi Peters, the Vice-Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), announced the institution's concerted efforts to enhance its digital ranking and leadership in educational technology. Peters addressed a news conference to discuss preparations for the upcoming 3rd MoodleMoot Africa 2025 conference, which NOUN will host in Abuja from October 8 to October 10.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Peters emphasized that NOUN's decision to host the conference underscores its leadership in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) on the continent. He highlighted the institution's commitment to improving its digital presence, academic visibility, and global standing. This conference marks the first time Nigeria will host such an event, following two previous ones in South Africa.
Peters revealed that the conference would take place at the Shehu Yar'Adua Centre, stressing that it serves as more than just a display of hospitality. It represents a strategic opportunity for NOUN to showcase its role in reshaping African education through technology. The event is expected to draw participants from 24 countries, including 18 African nations, and others from Europe and beyond, demonstrating NOUN's leadership in digital learning and scalable education models.
Key objectives for NOUN at MoodleMoot include enhancing its digital ranking through international engagement and establishing itself as a policy influencer in Africa's EdTech space. The VC also pointed out that the institution aims to demonstrate its Moodle-powered learning innovations to a global audience, proving its capability in integrating digital platforms effectively.
Peters further elaborated on the Moodle-based system, which supports around 170,000 students with advanced learning analytics and hybrid delivery models, all built on open-source tools. The conference will host 400 delegates, including vice-chancellors, software developers, and government officials, fostering a space for influence-building and agenda-setting. NOUN's active participation in global educational discussions, particularly regarding open-source educational technologies, directly impacts its global academic visibility, international collaborations, and research innovation indicators.
Prof. Grace Jokhtan, Chairperson of the Local Organising Committee for the conference, stated that the event is anticipated to be among the finest organized by the institution. She added that the conference, themed 'Leveraging the Power of Disruptive Technologies for Africa's Transformation,' features a dedicated website providing comprehensive details about the event.