Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to discuss how to integrate secure, open-source and mobile-based system with the Moodle learning management system (MLMS) then describe the implementation of a campus-wide mobile learning environment with short messaging system (SMS) and how this platform is incorporated with the student's learning environment. Design/methodology/approach: This paper discusses how existing mobile-based systems are currently being used for academic activities and describes current research within the same area. Then, the paper gives the detailed design of secure, open-source and Moodle integrated mobile learning environment that facilitates sending short messages via an SMS gateway. Findings: Statistical analysis of results during a campus-wide implementation of the system revealed students' preference in studying with a group while using mobile technologies for academic activities. Originality/value: With the advent of mobile technology, integrating an open-source secure mobile learning environment, coupled with a short message service, into a learning management system (LMS) has been a challenging task in mobile learning platforms during the past few years. Hence, this research project presents a significant importance for both students and teachers by proposing a campus-wide mobile learning environment with open source software providing unlimited usage. (Contains 4 tables and 9 figures.)