The University of Calabar (UNICAL) is set to host the 26th Annual International Conference of the African Council for Communication Education (ACCE), Nigeria chapter, from October 21–24, 2025. Organized by UNICAL’s Department of Mass Communication, this year’s conference will explore the theme “Communication and Indigenous Knowledge Systems in the Era of AI, Big Data, and Cultural Transformation.”
Bringing together scholars, media professionals, and policymakers, the event will examine how Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) can be preserved and integrated into modern communication landscapes shaped by Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, and Virtual Reality.
Speaking to journalists in Calabar, the Chairman of the Conference Organizing Committee, Dr. Lawrence Ekwok, highlighted the significance of the discussions. “This platform will foster critical discussions on how indigenous knowledge can coexist with emerging technologies while ensuring Africa’s cultural heritage remains relevant,” he said.
The conference will cover topics such as journalism, broadcasting, media ethics, public relations, advertising, and development communication. Researchers are invited to submit abstracts on key sub-themes before the August 24, 2025 deadline, while early-bird registration remains open until May 30, 2025.
Dr. Obituru Pepple, ACCE National Secretary, emphasized the importance of the event, stating that it will challenge scholars and professionals to rethink indigenous communication methods in today’s rapidly evolving digital world. “As nations across the continent navigate the balance between technological innovation and cultural preservation, this UNICAL-hosted conference is poised to shape future academic and policy discussions on indigenous knowledge in the digital era.”
With 14 diverse sub-themes, the conference aims to address the marginalization of indigenous knowledge systems and explore pathways for their meaningful integration into Africa’s digital and communication ecosystem.
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