The Kibi Presbyterian College of Education (KiPCOE) has chalked a major milestone with the successful organisation of its maiden International Research Conference, bringing together researchers, academics, and education stakeholders from across Africa and beyond to deliberate on the future of digital‑age teaching and learning.
The two‑day conference, held under the theme “Rethinking Pedagogy in a Digital World: Skills and Competencies of Educators and Learners; Policies and Infrastructural Support,” explored how digital technologies can be leveraged to enhance teaching, learning, innovation, and research in contemporary education systems.
The Principal of KiPCOE, Rev. Dr. Charles Fosu‑Ayarkwah, described the event as a landmark achievement that reflects the institution’s commitment to advancing research and embracing the opportunities of the digital era. He noted that the conference positions the college as a growing hub for academic inquiry and collaboration.
The conference featured keynote presentations from distinguished international and local scholars, including Dr. Junifen F. Gauuan, President of the Philippine Christian University (PCU), who delivered a virtual address, and Prof. Christopher Yaw Kwaah, representing the Vice Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), who delivered an in‑person keynote lecture.
Speakers underscored the centrality of digitization in modern education, highlighting the need for educators and learners to adopt digital tools that promote critical thinking, innovation, employability, and effective communication. They also cautioned against the misuse of digital technologies and called for stronger ethical guidelines, policy frameworks, and institutional collaboration to ensure responsible use.
The event attracted participants from several countries, including PhD candidates, researchers, and academics from universities across Africa and beyond. The platform enabled participants to share research findings, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities for academic partnerships.
According to Rev. Dr. Fosu‑Ayarkwah, one of the key benefits of the conference is the creation of networks that will support joint research projects and peer‑reviewed publications, which are essential for academic progression and institutional development. He added that the conference has opened doors for KiPCOE lecturers to collaborate with colleagues from universities within and outside Ghana, strengthening the college’s research capacity.
He further highlighted the college’s readiness for digital learning, noting that KiPCOE operates a fully internet‑connected campus and a well‑equipped ICT laboratory that supports teaching, learning, and research.
Following the success of the maiden edition, KiPCOE hopes to institutionalise the conference as an annual event, providing a regular platform for educators, researchers, and stakeholders worldwide to share knowledge, build partnerships, and contribute to the advancement of education through technology.
By: Elizabeth Boafo
