About the Conference
The African Council for Distance Education (ACDE) 2027 International Conference provides a continental and global platform for scholars, practitioners, policymakers, industry leaders, students, innovators, diplomats and institutional stakeholders to critically engage with the transformation of open, distance and digital education in Africa.
The conference will explore how African higher education can respond to major societal challenges arising from changing funding landscapes, geopolitics, rapid technological advancement and evolving learner needs. It will also examine innovative, ethical, inclusive and sustainable approaches to digital transformation that enhance access, quality, equity, relevance, employability and learner success.
OBJECTIVES
The ACDE 2027 International Conference aims to advance dialogue, collaboration and innovation in African higher education while strengthening resilient, inclusive and future-ready universities
01 — Rethinking Higher Education Funding
Rethink financial models and funding approaches for higher education in Africa.
02 — Equity, Inclusion & Ethical Governance
Promote equity, inclusion and ethical governance in higher education within a changing global environment.
03 — Responsible Innovation & Digital Transformation
Advance African sovereignty, responsible innovation and sustainable digital transformation
04 — Partnerships & Collaboration
Strengthen partnerships among countries, academia, industry, government, communities and civil society in Africa.
05 — Youth Mobility & Innovation
Foster youth mobility and innovation across Africa.
06 — Entrepreneurship for Africa’s Youth
Promote entrepreneurship among Africa’s youthful population.
07 — Science Diplomacy
Promote science diplomacy in Africa.
08 — Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Encourage multi-, trans-, cross-, inter- and intra-disciplinary approaches.
09 — Future-Ready Universities
Foster intelligent, resilient and future-ready universities across Africa.
Important Dates
Prospective authors, presenters, and delegates are encouraged to take note of the following key dates for the ACDE 2027 International Conference.
30 OCTOBER 2026
31 DECEMBER 2026
Early Registration Deadline
12–16 APRIL 2027
Conference Dates
CALL FOR PAPERS
The ACDE 2027 International Conference invites scholars, researchers, practitioners, policymakers, instructional designers, students, diplomats and industry partners to submit papers addressing the conference theme and related areas of open, distance and digital education in Africa.
SUBMIT YOUR PAPER
Registration
Registration details for the ACDE 2027 International Conference will be available through the official conference registration platform. Participants are encouraged to register early to take advantage of the early registration period.
PHYSICAL — EARLY BIRD
US$300 Per Delegate
Early registration deadline: 31 December 2026
PHYSICAL — STANDARD
US$350 Per Delegate
VIRTUAL — EARLY BIRD
US$180 Per Delegate
Early registration deadline: 31 December 2026
VIRTUAL — STANDARD
US$200 Per Delegate
Venue
Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC)
Cape Town, South Africa
The ACDE 2027 International Conference will take place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), a leading international conference and events venue in the heart of Cape Town.
12–16 April 2027
