This toolkit is a comprehensive guide developed by the Association for the Development of Education in Africa (ADEA) to enhance the implementation of distance education across African higher education institutions. This toolkit addresses the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted traditional education systems and necessitated rapid adaptation to remote learning. The document outlines eleven key norms, each encompassing standards, benchmarks, and implementation actions, aimed at establishing a robust and effective distance education framework.

The norms include the creation of a strong legal and policy framework, effective strategy and organization, appropriate technology governance, adapted training programs, and competent teaching staff. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of administrative support, student engagement, dynamic partnerships, transparent communication, sustainable development, and future consolidation of distance learning practices.

The toolkit is designed as a self-assessment tool for governments and educational institutions to evaluate their current practices, identify gaps, and implement improvements. It encourages the adoption of international best practices and strategic planning to ensure equitable access to quality education.

This resource is essential for fostering resilience and innovation in African higher education systems, ensuring they can withstand future crises and continue to provide uninterrupted learning opportunities.