Fostering Research and Dialogue on Information Behaviour and Digital Literacy: Some Reflections on Africa’s Evolving Information Landscape

Abstract

This special edition of the Ghana Library Journal features six carefully selected papers from an international conference hosted by the Department of Information Studies, University of Ghana. Held from October 30 to 31, 2024, under the theme “Fostering Research on Information Behaviour and Digital Literacy in Africa,” the conference attracted a diverse community of scholars, practitioners, and policymakers. Organised in a hybrid format, the event welcomed participants from across Africa and beyond, reflecting the global relevance and reach of its core themes.

A highlight of the proceedings was the keynote address delivered by Professor Wole Michael Olatokun of the University of Ibadan, whose insights offered a foundation for the conference’s central theme. The event also proudly welcomed Emeritus Professor Anaba A. Alemna of the University of Ghana as guest speaker, whose distinguished contributions to the field and ongoing mentorship were warmly acknowledged by participants. Throughout plenary sessions, breakout groups, and post-panel dialogues, the conference sparked rich conversations across a wide array of topics: from the rise of open access and AI-powered archives to the evolving role of libraries as digital learning spaces, and the practical challenges of data protection in public services. What emerged was a shared commitment to building inclusive, responsive, and ethically grounded information systems for the continent.