Call for Papers

Call for Papers: 2026 International Higher Education Teaching, Learning, and Student Support Conference

Hope through Transformation: Advancing Sustainability, Inclusion, and Digital Innovation in Higher Education Practices

The University of South Africa (UNISA) invites educators, researchers, practitioners, policymakers, administrators, and students from across the globe to contribute to and participate in the International Higher Education Teaching, Learning, and Student Support Conference (ITLC 2026).

Building on the successes of ITLC 2025, the 2026 conference will centre on resilience, transformation, sustainability, and AI-driven inclusion in higher education. The theme, Hope through Transformation, challenges institutions to turn moments of crisis and uncertainty into opportunities for innovation, equity, and sustainable growth. Delegates are encouraged to share research and practice that reimagines teaching, learning, and student support for a rapidly evolving digital world.

Submission Categories

Contributors are invited to submit papers, posters, or workshop proposals aligned with one or more of the following key tracks and themes:

  • Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Education
  • Immersive and Experiential Learning Environments
  • Student Digital Resilience and Well-Being
  • Inclusive and Decolonial Pedagogies in a Digital Age
  • Reimagining Teaching, Learning, and Support Ecosystems
  • Sustainability, Green Technologies, and the Future of Higher Education
  • Translanguaging in Higher Education
  • Curriculum / Scholarship of Transformation and Abundance Intelligence

Read more about these focus areas at the link below:

Submission Guidelines

  • Abstract: Maximum 250 words clearly outlining the purpose, methodology, findings, and implications of your work.
  • Format: Indicate whether your submission is a paper, poster, workshop, or interactive session.
  • Title: Provide a concise and descriptive title aligned with the conference theme.
  • Biography: Include a short biography (max 100 words) of each presenter.

Submission Process

  • Prepare your abstract in accordance with the guidelines.
  • Submit via the official ITLC 2026 online submission form using the link below.

Important Dates

  • Conference dates: 04 – 07 May 2026

Review Process

All submissions will undergo a double-blind peer review process by a panel of higher education experts. Reviews will assess originality, relevance, clarity, and alignment with the ITLC 2026 theme. Feedback will be provided to assist authors in refining their presentations or papers.

Publication Opportunities

Selected high-quality papers will be considered for inclusion in the conference proceedings or in a special edition of a DHET-accredited journal dedicated to ITLC 2026. Further details will be communicated upon acceptance.

Join Us in Shaping the Future of Higher Education

ITLC 2026 aims to inspire action, foster collaboration, and build hope through transformation. We look forward to your valuable contributions in reimagining higher education for a sustainable, inclusive, and digitally empowered future.