The Importance of Polytechnics for Africa's Development

Authors

  • Goolam Mohamedbhai

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.6017/ihe.2017.88.9695

Keywords:

Africa, higher education, polytechnics, universities, development

Abstract

Most African countries that were former British colonies replicated the British higher education system and created both universities and polytechnics. However, in order to increase their tertiary education enrolment, these countries are gradually upgrading their polytechnics to universities. This article argues that this is a wrong move as polytechnics are as important as universities for Africa’s development, and calls for a re-consideration of the polytechnics conversion policy. 

Author Biography

Goolam Mohamedbhai

Goolam Mohamedbhai is former general secretary of the Association of African Universities. 

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Published

2017-01-17

How to Cite

Mohamedbhai, G. (2017). The Importance of Polytechnics for Africa’s Development. International Higher Education, (88), 30–31. https://doi.org/10.6017/ihe.2017.88.9695

Issue

Section

Countries and Regions