Higher education institutions seem to be becoming increasingly flexible with different functions. Most universities' mission statements involve teaching, research and service, but while the teaching and research missions are clearly defined and located within certain areas of the university activities, service is less clear and more ambiguous,…

This paper discusses the relevance of e-learning in the position of distance education in Nigeria. It commences by discussing the meaning of e-learning and distance education. It also discusses the historical background of distance education in Nigeria as well as the operations of National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) as the first federal…

Student political activism remains a key issue in the Third World despite its decline in industrialized nations. The historical development of student politics and student involvement in independence struggles, students' role as incipient elites, and the fragility of the political structures of many Third World nations contribute to the efficacy…

This essay proposes that, in the current changing world, the traditional liberal arts model of higher education, advocating liberal learning for human freedom, does not go far enough to liberate specific groups from concrete mechanisms of deprivation and oppression. A critique, rebuttal, and second response are also presented. (MSE)

Guest editors comment on articles chosen for a previous journal issue focusing on the role of higher education and national economic and social development. It is noted that in developing countries, higher education addresses nation-building, whereas in developed countries emphasis is on social and economic change in the postindustrial society.…

Analysis of the historical origins and development of Israel's universities helps understand the phenomenon of transfer and adaptation of Western concepts of higher education in developing countries. Despite major historical changes and the establishment of the Israeli state, the prestate ethos still dominates. (Author/MSE)

The dynamics of the university systems in low income countries have changed drastically in the last three decades, and suggest directions in which higher education might be heading. Financing which depends more heavily on private resources and user contributions is the only feasible approach for reducing existing inefficiency and increasing…

The role of the African university in the development of the continent is discussed in terms of African educational history and its effect on societal needs of communities, the influence of Western conceptions of the university, and the world role it can play within the academic community. The first essay examines the historical development of the…

A discussion of the role of universities in Africa's developing nations outlines the problems faced by African countries in transition, delineates role areas for the university, examines problems preventing universities from realizing these roles, and offers suggestions for overcoming these obstacles. (MSE)

Presents a comparative examination of the way in which academic freedom is expressed and maintained in certain anglophone developed and developing societies. A definition of the term is offered followed by a brief historical analysis of the way in which autonomy was established in Western societies. (Author/SJL)

Two reports on higher education in Africa, Asia, and Latin America are the basis for an examination of the potential and problems of higher education in developing nations in the southern hemisphere. Ways to improve higher education in these areas using north-south university cooperation are suggested. (Author/MSE)

Discusses issues associated with the establishment of a distance education branch of a technical institute in Qwaqwa, a new, formerly self-governing portion of the Orange Free State (South Africa). Focuses on design and utility of the system itself and on implementation of such a technologically advanced project in a Third-World context. (MSE)

Major problems faced in India's development are discussed, including rapid industrialization and urbanization and needs for ecological protection as well as food and industry, literacy, and rapid social change in a multilingual and multireligious society. The roles of higher education and international cooperation are also examined. (MSE)

Drawing from his experiences at the University of the South Pacific, the author considers ways that the university can teach not only cognitive knowledge, but also altruism and active community concern to its students. (SJL)

Rapid globalization has highlighted and even enhanced the disparities between the northern and southern hemispheres, with increasing concentration of knowledge, technology, and economic growth in the northern hemisphere's developed nations. Colleges and universities have a vital role in removing these inequities, and international and…