As we celebrate Lesotho’s recent Independence Day, we recognise the country’s continued efforts to widen access to quality learning through more flexible approaches. Its National Policy on Open and Distance Learning is helping establish a stronger national framework for learning beyond traditional classrooms.
With the transformation of the Lesotho Distance Teaching Centre into the College of Open and Distance Learning of Lesotho started, the country is expanding open schooling and creating more pathways for people to learn. In higher education, institutions are also advancing technology-enabled learning, employability, and flexible study options, including the introduction of micro credentials, to make education more relevant and accessible.
COL is honoured to work alongside partners in Lesotho as they continue to widen opportunities for people to learn, build skills and shape their futures.
As Cyprus marks the anniversary of its independence, we celebrate its contribution to the Commonwealth and its commitment to collaboration in open education.
Through the small states community and the Virtual University for Small States of the Commonwealth (VUSSC), Cyprus brings valuable perspectives to our shared work to expand learning opportunities and strengthen institutions.
We commend the Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth for advancing these goals through the Strategic Plan for the Improvement and Upgrading of Higher Education in Cyprus. Its priorities include quality and excellence, stronger links with the labour market, internationalisation, and positioning Cyprus as an international centre for higher education.
For small states, these ambitions highlight the value of working across borders to share expertise, encourage innovation and widen access to education. COL looks forward to building on its partnership with Cyprus through VUSSC and other initiatives to advance more inclusive, innovative and accessible education.
On Nigeria’s Independence Day, the Commonwealth of Learning congratulates the Government and people of Nigeria and celebrates the country’s commitment to education and development. Nigeria hosts COL’s Regional Training and Research Institute for Distance and Open Learning (RETRIDOL) at the National Open University of Nigeria. Through the institute, Nigeria helps share knowledge and expand open and distance learning across West Africa.
Through its Education Sector Renewal Initiative and National EdTech Strategy 2025–2030, Nigeria is building pathways from learning to skills and employment, while expanding digital learning, teacher development and inclusive access. The country is also championing open educational resources, flexible learning and micro-credentials, and equipping teachers and TVET practitioners to use generative AI responsibly.
Today, COL celebrates Nigeria's leadership and its efforts to make learning more accessible, relevant and responsive to diverse learners and the world of work.
As we celebrate Lesotho’s recent Independence Day, we recognise the country’s continued efforts to widen access to quality learning through more flexible approaches. Its National Policy on Open and Distance Learning is helping establish a stronger national framework for learning
As Cyprus marks the anniversary of its independence, we celebrate its contribution to the Commonwealth and its commitment to collaboration in open education.
Through the small states community and the Virtual University for Small States of the Commonwealth (VUSSC), Cyprus brings
On Nigeria’s Independence Day, the Commonwealth of Learning congratulates the Government and people of Nigeria and celebrates the country’s commitment to education and development. Nigeria hosts COL’s Regional Training and Research Institute for
