Argyle IT & Education, an education technology organisation, is spearheading efforts to transform Africa’s higher education landscape through digital innovation with the upcoming Digital Higher Education in Africa summit.
Scheduled for June 19th and 20th, 2025, at Eko Hotels & Suites in Lagos, Nigeria, the summit aims to bring together policymakers, academics, industry leaders, and edtech organisations to accelerate the adoption of digital technologies that will redefine teaching, learning, and research across the continent.
This disclosure was made during a recent virtual press conference featuring some of the industry executives.
The Chief Operating Officer of Argyle IT & Education, Solikume Joel, stated DHEA was born out of a shared need identified in the education sector through work at Argyle IT & Education, a career-focused education technology company committed to transforming how education is delivered and careers are shaped in Nigeria and across Africa.
He said, “We saw a gap in conversations around the real challenges facing education and a need to spotlight what’s working while growing the digital higher education space. We began development in 2020, and by 2022, institutions had already started using our platforms for their learning.
“The DHEA summit is our way of bringing together educators, policymakers, vice chancellors, student voices, and the corporate sector to shape the future of education in Africa. There’s no better time than now.”
The Chief Executive Officer of Argyle IT & Education, Opeyemi Ibukun, said, “When we look at developing countries, one thing they’ve gotten right is their investment in higher education, with over 60 per cent of their population attending tertiary institutions, compared to less than 30 per cent in other regions.
“Higher education is a critical driver of innovation and economic growth. It strengthens the entire education system, builds human capital for the workforce, and helps retain talent.”
He further emphasised, “It is essential to recognise that the economic potential unlocked by higher education can, in turn, generate the funding needed to improve basic education.
“DHEA aims to address key challenges in the sector, including funding gaps, infrastructure deficits, the need for upskilling and capacity building, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, while also exploring monetisation opportunities for universities.”
Managing Director of Danvic Petroleum, Dr Mayowa Afe, discussed the key drivers of digital education, particularly the role of digitisation in enabling personalised learning experiences.
He stressed the need for public-private partnerships to fund initiatives aimed at bridging infrastructure and skills gaps in the country.
“To truly transform education, we must invest in scalable digital infrastructure and equip both educators and students with the skills they need to thrive,” he noted.
Director of i-Flow Energy Holdings, Prof Babajide Oyeneyin, highlighted the importance of digital transformation in advancing research and future development.
He encouraged the education sector to leverage big data and artificial intelligence for predictive analysis, which could accelerate digital adoption and foster meaningful progress in Nigeria’s education system.
“It’s about looking into the future and building on existing foundations to move ahead in development,” Oyeneyin stated.
Managing Director of LOJ International Education, Dr Jide Olufuyi, explained how remote learning and global connectivity are revolutionising collaboration among students and teachers, making education more cost-effective and accessible.
“These tools are breaking down barriers, bridging inequalities, and unlocking learning opportunities for everyone,” he said.
