Policies and strategies for institutions of higher learning in Africa in view of Africa's long-term development challenges and strategies

Abstract

The paper takes a quick glance at prevailing socio-economic conditions in Africa as a basis for appreciating the "willed" future, followed by a review of the Continent’s long-term development challenges and needs drawing their respective implications for sharper higher education policies and strategies. It concludes with a few policy and strategy suggestions and a plan of action with the aim to stimulate discussion and generate various options so as to ensure that African institutions of higher learning play their dutiful role in the development process at that time. The message through the paper together with the required action is clear: Africa would be faced with a number of challenges in the years ahead derived from the decisions and actions taken during the next five years. These challenges must be met and African institutions of higher learning could play a catalyst role. Consequently there is the need to revise present policies and strategies for higher education and the decision ought to be taken now.