Imagining the Futures of Higher Education in Southern Africa

This book showcases multiple perspectives about the futures of Higher Education from experts and other stakeholders in academia in the Southern African region, with each chapter presenting a different scenario of a possible future for Higher Education. It situates itself at the confluence of various fields of study such as Educational Technologies, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Sociology of Education, Sociology of the Future, Sustainable Development and Climate Change. It also includes various topics, such as digital development in terms of AI and emerging technologies, Higher Educational strategising and planning, the philosophical underpinnings of Higher Education and the present-day need for Sustainable Development models. Through the various chapters discussing the above-mentioned themes in the varied contexts of the Southern African region, this book helps readers engage in imaginative thinking regarding the future world and thus be prepared to embrace the challenges ahead. This book also underpins curriculum development for the new era firstly through new philosophical outlooks and secondly through ideas for novel learning areas in Higher Education and content to help shape minds for the twenty-first century.

This book paves the way for innovation, progress and adaptation to the changing needs of the Higher Education clientele. It also attempts to influence policymaking, support advocates for sustainability and environmental education, prepare for technological advancements and improve the resilience and wellbeing of people in the region.