Research in institutions of higher education in Africa: challenges and prospects
Loading...
Date
2013
Authors
Njuguna F.W.
Itegi, Florence M.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
European Scientific Institute
Abstract
Purpose: The paper discusses challenges, implications and prospects of research in
institutions of higher education in Africa. It posits that research has been accorded insufficient
attention and resources by many African governments and institutions of higher education by
extension.
Methodology: It involved review of relevant literature from textbooks, Journal Articles and
personal experiences.
Findings: The challenges of research in Africa are not purely academic. They are caused by
failure of the governments to put in place policies that recognize the fundamental impact
research activities could have on governance and efficient use of public resources.
Consequently, research has been accorded insufficient attention and resources by
governments and institutions of higher education.
These are manifested in deficiency in training of student researchers, preference for synthetic
research rather than innovative and creative types, theoretical approach to teaching research
resulting to inadequately prepared personnel to meet international standards. Besides, poor
remuneration of researchers has resulted in movements of staff from institutions of higher
education to lucrative jobs in the country and brain drain. This has impacted negatively on the
quality of research in terms of skills, facilities and the general research environment.
However, use of ICT will make the research process easier and improve dissemination. There
is need to encourage partnerships between private and public institutions and collaboration
locally and regionally.
Description
Keywords
Research, higher education, Africa
Citation
European Scientific Journal December 2013