National ICT leaders gather in Darwin for annual forum

Charles Darwin University (CDU) hosted the Australasian Council of Deans of Information and Communications Technology’s (ACDICT) Annual Council Meeting and Learning & Teaching Forum in June. 

ACDICT is the peak body for ICT leadership in higher education and works to strengthen education and research through strategic advocacy, collaboration, and national leadership by connecting academic leaders to shape policy, foster partnerships, and promote the critical role of computing in a digital society.

The hybrid event brought together more than 40 attendees from most of the 27 member universities across Australia, reinforcing the national conversation on the future of ICT education, research, and leadership.

Held over three days, the forum featured keynote panels on the student experience, digital capability, generative artificial intelligence, and assessment innovation. 

Presentations also showcased outcomes from ACDICT Learning and Teaching Grant recipients, part of an investment of more than $250,000 across the past five years to support sector-led innovation. 

Attendees were also afforded the opportunity to engage with First Nations history and culture thanks to a powerful Welcome and storytelling session from Larrakia woman Jeanneen McLennan.

ACDICT President Stewart von Itzstein thanked the forum’s participants for advancing the organisation’s shared mission.

“Our Annual Council Meeting and Learning and Teaching Forum bring ICT academic leaders together to share priorities, address challenges, and strengthen the collegial foundations of our sector,” Associate Professor von Itzstein said.

“We thank CDU for hosting this year’s conference and facilitating engagement with the local community that has greatly enriched our discussions.”