By Dr Tejumade V. Ogundipe

The EASA 2026 Conference was a powerful way to begin the year. The rich conversations, thoughtful feedback, and meaningful connections made the experience truly enriching. Starting 2026 with EASA left me encouraged, challenged, and inspired to continue cultivating spaces where innovation, people, and purpose thrive together.

I had the privilege of presenting “Cultivating the Digital Vineyard: The Role of Collaborative Leadership in Integrating Emerging Technologies into Teaching and Learning in Higher Education” in collaboration with Associate Professor Ntombizandile Gcelu of the University of the Free State, whom I first met at the SAERA Conference in 2024. It was a joy to share ideas on how collaboration and leadership can support institutions in thoughtfully embracing emerging technologies for impactful teaching and learning.

Conferences extend beyond the sharing of knowledge; they are spaces for connection, reflection, and professional growth. EASA 2026 was no exception. For me, it set a clear tone for the year ahead and aligned strongly with my goals for 2026. I truly felt it was God’s affirmation—“Once have I spoken, twice have I heard it”—highlighting the central role of collaboration in my focus for this year.

The keynote speakers, particularly Professor Jonathan Jansen, were exceptional, and the parallel sessions were rich and engaging. A special highlight was unexpectedly walking into the Emerging Researcher 2025 Award session. Congratulations to Dr Samantha Kriger  and Dr Climant Khoza on receiving this award. 

Listening to researchers share their journeys—many of which resonated deeply with my own—was both humbling and inspiring. 

Presenting alongside Associate Professor Ntombizandile Gcelu, with whom I share a mentor, Dr Brenda LH Marina-Lewis, made the experience even more meaningful and reminded me of the power of academic community and shared journeys.

EASA 2026 also offered a valuable opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and establish new relationships for collaboration in the year ahead.

I am deeply grateful for the opportunity and support from my manager, Dr Sinobia Kenny of AIMSSEC, a department of AIMS South Africa. Her leadership, trust, and encouragement continually create space for me to grow, contribute, and serve with purpose.