The Commonwealth of Learning (COL) and the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in October 2025 to establish a strategic framework to accelerate digital transformation, strengthen open and distance learning (ODL), and expand equitable access to lifelong learning opportunities across the East African region. The MOU formalises collaborative action to modernise education systems, promote digital resilience, and enhance the quality and inclusiveness of education.
The MOU is designed to identify and activate mutually beneficial avenues for cooperation within the mandates between COL and IUCEA. Its core purpose is to broaden access to quality education and training by harnessing technology-enabled learning, artificial intelligence, open educational resources, and innovative pedagogical models. In doing so, the initiative directly supports progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 4, particularly by expanding inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.
The MOU also aligns with the IUCEA Strategic Plan and its ICT policy, both of which emphasise digital transformation, regional harmonisation, and the enhancement of quality and relevance in higher education. The agreement enables joint efforts in policy support, teacher development, the creation and sharing of digital learning content, and the expansion of innovative, flexible learning pathways such as micro-credentials, thereby reinforcing institutional and regional commitments to modern, future-ready education systems.
Professor Peter Scott, President and CEO of COL, elaborated, “COL is delighted to join forces with IUCEA in advancing a shared vision of accessible, high-quality digital learning for all. This partnership allows us to combine our global expertise with global leadership to expand lifelong learning opportunities across East Africa, using ODL and digital innovations.”
Professor Idris A. Rai, the Acting Executive Secretary of IUCEA, expressed, “IUCEA is excited about this collaboration with COL as it serves as a catalyst for advancing digital transformation and improving the quality of teacher education in our region. We look forward to collaboratively developing innovations that will benefit educational institutions, universities, governments, teachers, and learners across East Africa.”
Implementation will be guided by a Joint Committee that meets every six months to review progress, identify challenges, and propose adjustments to ensure effective delivery. Specific projects will be detailed in separate agreements, with each party mobilising its own resources to achieve agreed objectives. The MOU will remain in effect for five years, with the possibility of renewal.
The Commonwealth of Learning (COL) is an intergovernmental organisation established by Commonwealth Heads of Government to expand access to learning through open, distance, and technology-enabled education.
The Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA) is a statutory body of the East African Community mandated to coordinate higher education and research, harmonise standards, and promote regional integration in the sector.
