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The Next Decade of Open Education in Africa

23 March 2026

The OER Foundation at Otago University in New Zealand (launched in 2009) officially closed in December 2025. Although this was a programme in a single institution, it can be seen as a symbolic event for open education. It has prompted Paul Bacsich, an experienced consultant in online learning, to produce an evidence synthesis report examining the systemic challenges facing OER. In this article, we unpack the implications of his analysis for the future of OER in Africa.

Rethinking assessment in the age of AI

03 March 2026

On 9 March 2026 from 18:00 – 20:00, the University of the Free State will host a compelling public lecture titled 'Assessment After ChatGPT: A Practical Integrity Framework for Schools and Universities.' The event will also include a hybrid component, extending participation beyond the physical venue.

Join the Global Celebration of Open Education: Open Education Week 2026

25 February 2026

From 2nd to 6th March 2026, the global open education community comes together for Open Education Week (OE Week), an annual celebration spotlighting the power of openness. As part of this global celebration, the 2026 Open Education Week Virtual Summit – hosted by the African Library and Information Associations and Institutions (AfLIA) in partnership with OER Africa – will take place online on 3rd and 4th March 2026 under the theme Open Education, Open Possibilities.

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Current focus

Developing professional competences and skills

Effective Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is crucial for building knowledge, enhancing educational praxis, and improving student outcomes in higher education. OER Africa’s CPD framework space offers academics and academic librarians a structured, resource-rich pathway to professional growth and impactful teaching and learning experiences.

OER Africa has developed, and continues to test, innovative alternative approaches to continuing professional development (CPD) for academics. One strategy has been to develop Open Education Tutorials for university academic staff that will empower them to embrace open education.

Primary place to find African-produced OER courseware in several thematic areas, including: Continuous Professional Development OER for Academics, Academic Librarians, and Senior Management; Agriculture OER; Foundation OER; and Health OER.

Group of adults sitting in front of a laptop

Resources

Featured resource

Explore Our New Academic CPD Framework and Resources

Are you looking to enhance your professional development or support it within your department or institution? Visit our new Continuous Professional Development (CPD) framework space to explore CPD resources that have been curated specifically for the CPD framework for academics.

About OER Africa

OER Africa is an initiative of Saide, established in 2008 with support from the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, to collaborate with higher education institutions in Africa in the development and use of Open Educational Resources (OER), to enhance teaching and learning.

Our Mission