Publication: Retaining Teaching Capacity in African Universities : Problems and Prospects
Date
1995-05
ISSN
Published
1995-05
Author(s)
Blair, Robert
Jordan, Josephine
Abstract
A project was carried out to obtain
information on academic staffing in seven African
universities, and to analyze the factors influencing
academic staff to leave universities in Africa. The report
provides detailed analysis and comment on the data, and
makes suggestions and recommendations for improvement and
policy interventions. The essential factors for improved
staff capacity are identified as economic growth and
revival, greater autonomy for universities, and the
development of diversified sources of funding so as to
remove the total dependence of universities on governments
for funding. A wide range of staffing policy options are
suggested, with the only viable way forward possibly being a
"trade-off" between high, competitive salaries, or
maintaining existing conditions which provide good leave and
travel benefits (in practice as well as theory), a relaxed
working environment, and a general lack of accountability.
Strong leadership is essential, and reinforced and
restructured university personnel offices and programs are
crucial. The research environment is vital for viable
academic staff recruitment and retention, particularly at
the more senior levels, and a number of policy options for
the achievement of an improved research environment are
proposed. Other areas requiring attention for successful
staff retention, in addition to salaries, are a means to
obtain housing and vehicles, and an urgent improvement in
university facilities.
Citation
“Blair, Robert; Jordan, Josephine. 1995. Retaining Teaching Capacity in African Universities : Problems and Prospects. Africa Region Findings & Good Practice Infobriefs; No. 39. © World Bank, Washington, DC. http://openknowledge.worldbank.org/entities/publication/e4bfe901-c064-55ca-951c-5ee2cc5ee803 License: CC BY 3.0 IGO.”