Perhaps the most natural staring point for higher education reform involves crafting a vision of a rational system- one based on verifiable facts and justifiable assumptions. To achieve this reform a transparent and informed dialogue needs to take place, bringing together educators, industry, government, prospective students and other relevant stakeholders.
The system must be customized to fit a country’s stage of development, political system, social structure, economic capacities, history and culture. it is also important to avoid the process becoming too political, where a long wish list is produced and agreement is only for the least objectionable measures.
A common vision should yield a framework to guide expansion and reform of higher education, while also organizing the system in a way that is compatible with societal goals. This work will require long-term political and financial commitment, as well as high-level support to convince the public of the widespread Importance of higher education.
