Samoan academic Professor Ioana Chan Mow was among five distinguished leaders in open and distance learning conferred the title of Honorary Fellow by the Commonwealth of Learning (COL).

She was recognised for advancing technology-enabled learning and inclusive education across the Pacific.

Dr Evelyn Nonyongo (South Africa) – for five decades of pioneering work expanding access and equity in Southern Africa.

Senator the Honourable Professor Prakash Persad (Trinidad and Tobago) – for leadership in academia, policy, and AI-driven innovation.

Professor Mark Brown (New Zealand) – for global contributions to online, blended, and digital education.

Dr Kaviraj Sharma Sukon (Mauritius) – for transformative leadership in higher education and policy innovation, present at #PCF11BW to receive the award in person.

While most awards were accepted by representatives, the impact of each Fellow’s work resonates across the Commonwealth, shaping education systems to be more inclusive, innovative, and resilient.

“We celebrate their achievements and lasting legacy in widening access to learning,” said the COL in a statement.

Dr Chan Mow is a leading expert in technology and education. With over 40 years of teaching experience, she has made important contributions to online learning, e-government, Information Communications Technology policy, programming environment, and technology in disaster response.

Dr Chan Mow has published many research papers and is recognised globally. She has led for the National University of Samoa, various project collaborations with international teams, including the Samoa-American Samoa microwave link, Pacific Attitudes survey, Samoa Knowledge Society Initiative, Commonwealth of Learning Technology-enabled learning Project, Skills for Work, Pacific Europe Network for Science, Technology, and Innovation and Edulink.

As the country's focal point for the Commonwealth of Learning, she has supported educational development across the Pacific. Her efforts have greatly benefited the region, promoting sustainable development, open distance and flexible learning, and science, technology, engineering and maths.