This article reports on new programs that focus on training skilled scientists and mathematicians who will help solve Africa's myriad problems. The African Institute for Mathematical Sciences, in Cape Town, South Africa, offers one of the first working examples of a growing effort to develop a cadre of highly trained, practically minded scientists…

Evidence is accumulating around the world that greatly increased access to higher education over the past two decades has come at a tremendous price--a severe decline in academic quality. Brief reports on the quality-quantity question and other major issues facing higher education in the world are presented. (MLW)

Reports on a temporary South African government moratorium on expansion of university distance-education programs while reorganization of higher education in that nation is planned. Notes that several private universities are drawing distance education students away from the nation's two principal public distance-education institutions. Notes a…