Open Access and the 5th Industrial Revolution: Call for Engagement at LISCON 2025
In an era defined by rapid technological innovation and a renewed focus on human-centric development, the 5th Industrial Revolution (5IR) is ushering in unprecedented opportunities and challenges for knowledge creation, dissemination, and accessibility. At the heart of this transformation is Open Access (OA)—a paradigm that promotes unrestricted access to scholarly research and educational resources, enabling inclusive and equitable participation in global knowledge ecosystems.
It is against this backdrop that the Library and Information Science Multi-Dynamic Concept (LISCON) proudly announces its 2025 International Conference, themed:
“Open Access in the Emerging 5th Industrial Revolution (5IR)”
Scheduled to take place from September 7–10, 2025 at the Department of School Library and Media Technology, University of Ibadan, Nigeria, the conference will adopt a hybrid format, combining both physical and virtual participation to accommodate a diverse, global audience.
Thematic Scope and Relevance
The conference theme reflects the urgency of interrogating Open Access through the lens of the 5IR—a period characterized by the fusion of artificial intelligence, robotics, biotechnology, and human-centered design. In this new industrial paradigm, Open Access is more than a publishing model; it is a social and ethical imperative that shapes how knowledge is produced, shared, and preserved.
The conference invites critical engagement with the following subthemes:
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Technology Advancements and Open Access
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Open Access and Innovation in Research
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Inclusivity and Equity in Open Access
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Open Access and Ethical Issues in Publishing
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Intellectual Property and Open Access
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Open Access and Research in Health Information Management
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Open Access and Digital Preservation
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Open Access and Records Management
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Open Access and Quality Research in LIS
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Open Access and Open Educational Resources (OER)
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Open Access and Ethical Implications
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Open Access, Upskilling, and the Advent of the 5IR
These themes invite scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to critically reflect on how Open Access can serve as a catalyst for innovation, social justice, and sustainable development.
Important Dates
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Abstract Submission Deadline: May 15, 2025
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Notification of Acceptance: April 28, 2025
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Full Paper Submission: June 30, 2025
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Registration Deadline: July 31, 2025
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Deadline for Payment & Presentation Slides: August 31, 2025
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Final Paper Deadline: August 31, 2025
Abstracts should not exceed 150 words, be formatted in Times New Roman, 12-point font, and include at least three keywords. Submissions should be sent via email to: lisconteam@gmail.com
Keynote and Featured Speakers
The conference will feature distinguished keynote presentations by:
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Prof. Adeyinka Tella, Department of Library and Information Science, University of Ilorin, Nigeria
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Prof. Olugbade Oladokun, Department of Library and Information Studies, University of Botswana (Virtual)
Their contributions will anchor the conference dialogue around evidence-based strategies for embedding Open Access in institutional, national, and global knowledge infrastructures.
Participation and Registration
The conference is open to scholars, students, and professionals in Library and Information Science and allied fields. Registration details are as follows:
| Category | Format | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| International Delegates | Virtual | $50 |
| Postgraduate Students | Physical | N20,000 |
| Postgraduate Students | Virtual | N10,000 |
| Undergraduate Students | Virtual | N5,000 |
| General Participants (Local) | Physical | N30,000 |
Payment Information
- Bank Name: Guaranty Trust Bank
Account Name: LISCON Multi Dynamic Concept
Naira Account: 0718431830
USD Account: 3000976268
A Call to Action
LISCON 2025 invites critical papers, case studies, and theoretical reflections that explore how Open Access can be leveraged to bridge knowledge divides, enhance research quality, and support ethical practices in scholarly communication. As the world grapples with the complex dynamics of the digital age, this conference offers a timely and necessary forum for reimagining the role of Open Access in shaping the future of libraries, academia, and information systems.
- For further enquiries, please contact:
Prof. Airen Adetimirin: +234 802 333 6038
Dr. Olawale Oyewole: +234 802 375 5412
Join the discourse. Shape the future. Engage with Open Access in the 5IR at LISCON 2025.
ICSKS 2025 is open to papers, workshops, and case studies on the following sub-themes:
eeting, themed “Promoting Diversity and Inclusiveness through Innovative Library and Information Service Delivery in Nigeria. This year’s conference aims to highlight the critical role of advanced library and information services in addressing the diverse needs of communities and ensuring equitable access to information for all, irrespective of their background.
