COL has launched a new call for applications for its COL Chairs Programme. Through this initiative, COL appoints distinguished experts from across the Commonwealth to advance research, innovation and thought leadership in its areas of competence.
Established in 2010, the programme supports the development of effective Open and Distance Learning (ODL) and Technology-Enabled Education and training through advocacy, research and capacity building across the Commonwealth. It also strengthens regional cooperation and enhances COL’s visibility and its work.
COL Chairs are appointed for a term of three years. During this period, chairholders are expected to provide thought leadership in COL’s priority areas and to apply their research and innovation in support of Sustainable Development Goal 4. They are also expected to promote learning for sustainable development in alignment with COL’s Strategic Plan.
Applicants should be nationals of a Commonwealth country and should demonstrate a strong track record in research and innovation at the intersections of open, online, flexible, and distance education and one or more of these topics:
- Micro-credentials
- Skills, technical or vocational education and training
- Employability
- Authentic assessment
- Quality assurance
- Gender and inclusivity
- Artificial Intelligence
- Business models for sustainable education provision
- Open Educational Resources (OER)
- Technology-Enabled Learning (TEL)
COL Chairs are honorary positions hosted by universities within the Commonwealth.
The submission deadline for the next cohort of COL Chairs is April 30, 2026.
More information on the programme and the application form is available here: https://www.col.org/about/col-chairs/
