IELPN Conference 2O25: Experts Advocates Synergy, Collaborative Leadership

By Toffa Momoh, Abuja

Speakers at the 2025 International Education Conference of the Institute of Educational Leadership Practitioners of Nigeria, IELPN, held at the Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Ogun State, have harped on the imperativeness of collaborative leadership, inclusivity and teamwork.

The conference, themed ‘Collaborative Leadership in the Digital Age: Building Global Partnerships for Excellence in Education through Technology’, attracted top education leaders, researchers and policymakers from Nigeria and abroad.

The registrar and chief executive of IELPN, Dr. Taiwo Olufunmilayo Olusa, praised TASUED for its hospitality and pioneering role in teacher education and policy development.

Dr. Olusa stated that the choice of TASUED as host was deliberate, as its values align closely with IELPN’s mission of fostering innovation and leadership in education.

“This year’s theme is timely and urgent as it sought to connect leaders globally, empower them technologically to embrace inclusivity and innovation.

“This conference is not just a gathering, it is a launchpad for transformation.

“IELPN mandate remains, training, professional development, research and innovation, and mentorship.” The Registrar said.

“I urged leaders, educators, and innovators to join us and support this cause. One of our proud platforms is our journal. It a space for rigorous scholarship, fresh ideas, and bold conversations in educational leadership.

“Take every opportunity to learn, connect, and envision the future we must create for education. Education is the bedrock of development, and leadership is the compass that determines our direction. Let us leave here determined to be leaders who inspire, innovate, and impact.

May this conference ignite fresh ideas, forge lasting partnerships, and renew our commitment to excellence in educational leadership.” Dr. Olusa.

Delivering the keynote address, the dean, Faculty of Education, University of Lagos, Prof. Simeon Adebayo Oladipo, stressed the urgency in adopting such collaborative leadership mindset, rooted in shared vision, inclusivity and teamwork.

He noted that such leadership is not merely strategic but essential for building resilient and future-oriented educational systems.

At the conference, the vice chancellor of TASUED, Prof. Oluwole Banjo, was conferred with the Fellowship of the IELPN, in recognition of his over three decades of outstanding contributions to educational leadership and transformative service at the institution.

In his acceptance speech, Prof. Banjo expressed gratitude to IELPN for the honour and reaffirmed his commitment to advancing education.

He stated that the Fellowship would further inspire him towards making a greater impact.

The conference, themed ‘Collaborative Leadership in the Digital Age: Building Global Partnerships for Excellence in Education through Technology’, attracted top education leaders, researchers and policymakers from Nigeria and abroad.

The Ogun State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Adelaja Arigbabu, whose goodwill message was delivered by the director in the Ministry of Education Science and Technology, Comrade Olarotimi Okeleye, disclosed that the Ogun State government is deeply committed to the education sector in the last six years of the administration of Prince (Dr) Dapo Abiodun.

He further lauded the institute for its transformative role in the sector.

The Day two of the conference witnessed a powerful contribution from Dr. Kayode Adewale and Dr. Amanda Johnson, whose presentations added both depth and urgency to discussions around digital education and global collaboration.

Dr. Kayode Adewale who was recently appointed the first Education Ambassador of Ogun State, and a staff member of TASUED made a presentation entitled ‘Work-Life Integration for Digital Education Leaders: Setting Boundaries in a 24/7 World.’

He spoke on the growing issue of digital overload among educators. He recommended practical solutions such as the use of digital calendars, prioritising tasks, filtering notifications through smart watches, and embracing delegation, emphasising that without defined boundaries, educators risk burnout and inefficiency.

Dr. Amanda Johnson, the Director, The Gerald H. Read Center for International & Intercultural Education, College of Education, Health & Human Services, Kent State University, Ohio, USA , who described herself as a “digital immigrant,” acknowledged the necessity of technology but warned that it must not replace human connection.

Dr. Johnson highlighted the value of cross-border collaboration, sharing examples of early-morning training sessions and real-time WhatsApp discussions with colleagues like Dr. Adewale.

She referred to such interactions as the “heartbeat of global collaboration,” grounded in authenticity, mutual respect, and sustained engagement.

She urged participants to nurture relationships formed during the conference and to continue sharing best practices across borders.

Other fellowship awardees include Mr. Olalekan Adeleke Ogunbanwo, a former Permanent Secretary in the Lagos State Governor’s Office and a veteran broadcaster.

Participants at the conference emphasised the critical importance of integrating global best practices, leveraging technology, and embracing collaborative leadership in reshaping education for the demands of the 21st century.

The event ended with a strong call to action for educational stakeholders to build sustainable partnerships, adopt inclusive strategies, and take decisive steps in leading the ongoing digital transformation in education.