Collaboration & policies for an effective higher education ecosystem

In a recent interview with the CEO of The Mawazo Institute, Fiona Wanjiku Moejes, CNBC Africa delved into the importance of collaboration and policies in shaping an effective higher education ecosystem in Africa. The discussion stemmed from key outcomes of the British Council's Going Global Africa 2024 conference in Abuja, Nigeria, where industry leaders, policymakers, and educators converged to explore ways to enhance the higher education landscape on the continent. One of the central themes that emerged from the conference was the crucial need for collaboration and connectivity between different sectors to ensure that higher education institutions are aligned with industry demands and policy objectives. Moejes highlighted the significance of creating a higher education ecosystem that caters to the diverse needs of Africa by fostering dialogue between academia, industry, and policymakers. She emphasized the importance of mobility in connecting institutions across the continent, enabling them to learn from each other and cultivate a sense of shared knowledge and expertise. Beyond collaboration, Moejes underscored the importance of inclusivity in higher education policies to amplify the voices of marginalized communities. She stressed that building a truly inclusive higher education system requires active engagement with diverse perspectives and the integration of inclusive practices in institutional frameworks and curricula. Moejes emphasized the need for policies that prioritize inclusivity and empower underrepresented groups, particularly women, to become leaders and change-makers in their respective fields. Moreover, the interview shed light on the imperative for higher education institutions to align their programs with industry standards to produce graduates who are well-equipped for the workforce. Moejes highlighted the role of partnerships and collaboration in ensuring that academia responds effectively to the evolving needs of various sectors. By engaging with stakeholders from commercialization and policy spheres, Mawazo Institute strives to equip women with the skills and knowledge required to meet industry demands. The conversation also touched upon the significance of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in bridging the skills gap and providing meaningful opportunities for individuals who may not pursue traditional university education. Moejes emphasized the transformative potential of vocational skills and stressed the need to elevate the status of TVET programs to align them with conventional academic pathways. She advocated for greater recognition of micro-credentials and e-learning initiatives, which offer flexible learning options and enhance access to education beyond traditional brick-and-mortar institutions. Additionally, the discussion turned to the issue of education funding in Africa, acknowledging the existing challenges stemming from insufficient investment in the sector. Moejes called for a reframing of the conversation around education funding to underscore its pivotal role in shaping governance, leadership, and economic development. She emphasized the need for African bodies like the African Union to prioritize education as a strategic investment for the continent's future, highlighting the demographic dividend of Africa's youth population and its potential to drive economic growth and global competitiveness. As Africa's education landscape continues to evolve, concerted efforts towards collaboration, policy reform, inclusivity, and funding prioritization are essential to build a strong and dynamic higher education ecosystem that propels the continent towards sustainable development and prosperity.