To capitalise on the demographic dividend and create the economies of the future, Africa must move away from post-colonial university models and create institutions that house teaching, research and entrepreneurship under one roof, argues Calestous Juma.
"Africa's youth is dynamic and entrepreneurial. This exciting, fizzing generation's drive needs to be channelled into powerful innovation for the economy and society. Youth, like fish, does not keep. But, unlike fish, it cannot be stored in the deep freezer for future use. Reaping the benefits of the demographic dividend requires deliberate policy to prepare the youth for changing work and equip them with the necessary skills. It is for this reason that the 10-year Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA-2024) focuses on higher technical training, especially in the engineering and entrepreneurial fields...."
Continue reading: http://newafricanmagazine.com/calestous-juma-unleash-the-power-of-universities/
Juma, Calestous. “Unleash the Power of Universities.” New African, July 15, 2015