Technological advancements, including AI and digital tools, are revolutionising higher education worldwide, opening new avenues for enhancing teaching and learning. As these innovations become increasingly integrated into university settings, it remains paramount to preserve the irreplaceable value of face-to-face interaction and meaningful engagement between lecturers and students. This issue was at the heart of passionate debates and discussions during a Teaching and Learning Colloquium organised by Middlesex University Mauritius at Flic-en-Flac on 16 June 2025.
Held under the theme “Innovation in Teaching and Learning with or without Technology,” the colloquium brought together higher education leaders, regulators, students, and academics. It demonstrated the institution’s commitment to being at the forefront of thoughtful integration, championing innovative pedagogies that uphold global academic standards while preserving the human connection essential to student development and academic success.
The event was officially opened by Dr Phil Barter, Academic Director at Middlesex University Mauritius, who welcomed participants and set the tone for a dynamic and thought-provoking programme focused on fostering innovation without compromising the vital role of face-to-face interactions.
The official opening ceremony featured welcome remarks from Professor Mari Jansen Van Rensburg, Vice-Chancellor and Director of Middlesex University Mauritius. This was followed by a speech from Dr Ellen Buck, Pro Vice-Chancellor Education and Student Experience at Middlesex University London, who reflected on the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, highlighting how it accelerated the integration of technology in higher education and transformed the learning experience by combining in-person and digital teaching.
Professor Romeela Mohee, Higher Education Commissioner, addressed the audience as keynote speaker. She spoke about regulatory policies, marking a key milestone with the signing of an agreement between the Higher Education Commission and the UK’s Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA UK).
The Honourable Dr Kaviraj Sharma Sukon, Minister of Tertiary Education, Science and Research, delivered the inaugural address, outlining the national priorities for higher education, research, and innovation. Committed to scientific advancement and educational development, he plays an active role in shaping national policies in these fields.
Throughout the day, a series of themed presentations delivered by Middlesex academics and students explored contemporary teaching and learning challenges from diverse perspectives. These presentations showcased ongoing research, classroom innovations, and reflective practices addressing important topics such as AI integration, mental health in education, ethical technology use, and inclusive curriculum design.
“This colloquium reflects our continued commitment to excellence and innovation in teaching and learning, while reinforcing the importance of collaboration across our academic community. It also served as a moment to celebrate the contributions of both staff and students through a series of awards,” said Professor Mari Jansen Van Rensburg, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Campus Director.
The event not only underscored Middlesex University Mauritius’ position as a proactive, globally connected institution, but also reaffirmed its mission to shape minds and inspire futures in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.
“As an anchor institution in Mauritius, Middlesex University Mauritius plays a key role in expanding access to British higher education for Mauritian students as well as students from neighbouring countries. In line with the spirit of the colloquium, which encouraged forward-thinking and human-centred approaches, we continue to evolve our academic offerings. The proposed introduction of new programmes for the 2025–2026 academic year, including the BEng (Hons) Mechatronics and Robotics Engineering and BSc (Hons) AI and Data Science, reflects our commitment to relevance, inclusion, and educational excellence. These developments are part of our broader mission to equip students with future-ready skills and the agility to thrive in an increasingly dynamic and technology-driven world,” she added.
This colloquium reflected the university’s commitment to global excellence and its international outlook. Beyond embodying the institution’s vision for the future of learning, the event showcased student engagement and academic leadership through themed presentations and staff recognition awards. Throughout the day, interactive sessions fostered stimulating discussions, enriched by the exchange of knowledge among esteemed guests. The colloquium highlighted the importance of anticipating future challenges while championing a human-centred approach to innovation in education.
